In a statement on Wednesday, AC Milan captain Davide Calabria expressed his disappointment over the departure of Olivier Giroud to Major League Soccer, which he believes will create a leadership vacuum at the seven-time European champions. The veteran French striker is set to play his final match for Milan in a post-season friendly against Roma in Perth on Friday, expected to draw 50,000 fans at the Optus Stadium.
Giroud, who is aged 37, is moving to Los Angeles FC next season and will retire from international football for France after the upcoming Euros in Germany. During his emotional send-off from Serie A with a goal in a 3-3 draw with Salernitana on Saturday, Giroud bid farewell to the Milan fans. Despite the absence of American midfielder Christian Pulisic and winger Rafael Leao from Milan’s tour squad in Australia, Giroud made the trip to Perth. Calabria emphasized Giroud’s leadership both on and off the field and expressed his gratitude for the support he has received. The captain acknowledged that Giroud’s presence will be dearly missed but cherished the opportunity to celebrate his departure together.
Giroud’s departure marks not the only player exit at Milan, as the club seeks a new coach after finishing as runners-up in Serie A. Stefano Pioli, who ended his four-and-a-half-year tenure at the club after the last Serie A campaign, will be replaced. Reports indicate that Lille coach Paulo Fonseca may take the reins at Milan, although Calabria remained uncertain about the situation. Assistant coach Daniele Bonera is set to lead the team in Perth and potentially coach the under-23s in the upcoming season.
In facing Roma, who finished in sixth place in Serie A, several key players, including Romelu Lukaku, will be absent. The on-loan striker is rumored to return to Chelsea from his loan spell. Milan and Roma will aim to end their seasons on a positive note in
