Olivier Giroud has admitted it was hard to score against Arsenal but said he was proud to win the Europa League with Chelsea.
The French international striker opened the scoring for Chelsea in their 4-1 win over the Gunners, his 11th goal in the competition this year. He also won a penalty that Eden Hazard converted and laid on an assist for Hazard’s second, and Chelsea’s fourth.
The first half was goalless and Giroud celebrated his sides efficiency in the second period that saw them run out easy winners by the final whistle.
“It was an interesting first half but there were no goals,” the 32-year-old told BT Sport.
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“It was a good final and we were better, more efficient in the second half.
“I am very proud, this team deserved to win something. It was special for me, I am happy for this club. It’s my second trophy in two years.”
Despite his happiness at his current club’s triumph, Giroud admitted to being torn by the identity of the team they defeated.
The Frenchman spent five and a half years at Arsenal, before being allowed to cross the English capital in January 2018.
11 - Olivier Giroud is the first player to score 11 goals in major European competition for an English club since Alan Shearer scored 11 in 2004-05 for Newcastle United. Lead. #UELfinal #CHEARS pic.twitter.com/S4587zwXYH
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 29, 2019
Giroud appeared not to celebrate his goal, and he offered an explanation as to why.
“These two clubs changed my life, they gave me the opportunity to play in the Premier League. I didn’t want to celebrate at Arsenal, but I am so proud to win this trophy with Chelsea.”
Giroud left Arsenal as the signings of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette saw him fall down the pecking order.
He has struggled for goals and game time in the Premier League this year. He has appeared 27 times in the top-flight for Chelsea, but amassed just 832 minutes in that time, scoring two goals.
The World Cup winner has grabbed his chance in the Europa League though, appearing in 14 games for his 11 goals, and he believes his returns are indicative of his dedication.
“When you give me the chance to get game time I always try my best. It was our second target to win the Europa League after finishing in the top four, so I feel blessed.”
