Olivier Giroud Explains Why He Knew Mikel Arteta was 'Made' for Arsenal job

Olivier Giroud says he could tell Mikel Arteta was destined for a career in management from his leadership qualities during their time as Arsenal teammates. 

Giroud played alongside the current Arsenal manager 95 times during his five years in North London, scoring 73 goals in 180 appearances. 

His decision to leave for Chelsea proved to be divisive among the fanbase, but the Frenchman has maintained an affectionate relationship with the club and has been spotted watching games with his children in recent years.

The 40-year-old will face his former club with Lille on Tuesday evening, describing the occasion as a ‘blessing’.

Reflecting on playing with his former teammate, Giroud said: “Mikel is a great person, he's a great manager, he's shown it with what he achieved, what he built with that team. This Premier League title shows that he's done incredible work. We gave him the time also for it and I think it was very important.

“But now they are back on the top and for me, I remember Mikel, you could see that he was made for a manager career because he was a leader on the pitch, not only on the pitch but off the pitch also, very demanding with himself and his teammates and a great, technically a great player,” he added.

“I think he assisted me a couple of times. I really enjoyed my time with him on the pitch and we won a few trophies together and it's a blessing to come back here and to play against that team.”

Giroud will return to the Emirates Stadium for the first time since January 2019, when he featured for Chelsea in their 2-0 win against the Gunners. 

The Lille forward also reflected on his time in North London and the special connection he built with the supporters.

“I have quite a few [stories]. I was here for five and a half years to be precise.

“I remember the trophies, the winning of the FA Cup three times and the Community Shield three times. There were so many people that believed in me such as Arsene Wenger and also members of staff and players. 

“I got to play with incredible players and progress alongside them and share special moments with the fans.”

“Even though I was an unknown quantity, the fans were singing my name at Anfield in my second game and I felt like I was part of the Arsenal family straight away. So I carry that with me and many positive memories.”