Olivier Giroud expressed that departing from Arsenal marked one of the toughest decisions in his career, as he prepares to return to the Emirates Stadium tonight with Lille in the Champions League.

During his nearly six-year tenure with the Gunners, Giroud scored 105 goals under Arsene Wenger. He moved to Chelsea in 2018, where he celebrated a Champions League victory in 2021, before transitioning to AC Milan and a brief spell with Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer. After returning to France last year, he now faces his former club, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with his past, especially with Mikel Arteta, his former teammate turned manager.

Giroud reflected:

"Arsenal was a major part of my career and I had to leave in order to play at the 2018 World Cup. I was really sad when I left the club but I had to make that choice, and it was one of the toughest ones in my career."

At 40 years old, Giroud considers this match a blessing. He acknowledged Arteta's remarkable achievements, including leading the Gunners to their first league title in 22 years and securing a new contract until 2030.

He praised Arteta’s managerial skills, stating:

"Mikel is a great person, a great manager and he has shown that with the team he has built. The Premier League title proves he has done incredible work."

Giroud, who won three FA Cups with Arsenal, noted Arteta’s leadership qualities as pivotal in his successful transition to management.

"I really enjoyed my time with him. We won a few trophies together and it is a blessing to come back here and play against his team."

Tonight's match promises to be an emotional reunion, with Giroud eager to showcase his skills against the club that shaped his career.