Official: Chelsea extend Olivier Giroud

Welcome to contract extension confirmation day!

After the announcement of Willy Caballero’s contract extension, Chelsea have followed suit by announcing a contract extension for Olivier Giroud as well. Like Caballero, Giroud’s contract had a club option built in for a one-year extension, which Chelsea have now exercised. (This was rumored to have been done a few weeks ago, but the official announcement only arrived today.)

“It is clear to the club that Olivier continues to be a player we want in the squad, especially as we maintain the important balance between top-quality experience and the exciting young talent we have available, and his attitude when asked to play a supporting role has been exemplary. He is a proven trophy winner who we hope can help our new generation to become that too.”

-Marina Granovskaia; source: Chelsea FC

Giroud came very close to leaving in January after barely featuring in the first half of the season and with his prospects of Euro 2020 draining away with every non-appearance. But he stayed as Chelsea couldn’t find a replacement, and since then, his fortunes improved as well. Taking advantage of an injury to Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi’s poor form, the 33-year-old proved that he’s still quite capable of leading the line.

Given the competitive, financial, and sporting uncertainties of football int he time of COVID-19, it only makes sense to keep the model professional at the club for another season. (And Euro 2020 got postponed to 2021 anyway.)

“Since I have been back at Chelsea, Olivier has been brilliant as a professional and as a man in general. He has great qualities to help the squad both on and off the pitch, not only with his talent but with the example he sets every day and the experience he brings to our young squad. I am very pleased that will continue next season.”

-Frank Lampard; source: Chelsea FC

Giroud has 21 goals in 76 appearances (39 starts) for Chelsea, and started both of the finals we’ve won in that time, the 2018 FA Cup and the 2019 Europa League. (He didn’t start the one final we lost, the 2019 League Cup.)

Let’s hope there’s more of both to come yet!