Giroud on Mbappe: The photo that sums up our bond

Olivier Giroud has opened up about his relationship with Kylian Mbappe, describing a photograph taken after Giroud broke Thierry Henry's record as the perfect summary of their bond. The image, captured at the 2022 World Cup, shows Mbappe jumping into Giroud's arms after Giroud scored against Poland to become France's all-time leading scorer.

Giroud, who now sits between Mbappe and Henry on France's scoring list, texted Mbappe immediately after the latter surpassed his record with 58 goals in a win over Senegal. 'Congrats bro, I am really happy for you. Well, I kept the record for three-and-a-half years, and it was great - but now it is yours, and you have to go again... oh, and bro, don't forget to save me your jersey!' Giroud wrote. He has yet to speak directly with Mbappe but has been told via a coaching staff member that Mbappe received the message and will call soon.

A moment of mutual joy

The defining photograph was taken after Giroud's record-breaking goal against Poland in the 2022 World Cup round of 16. Mbappe provided the assist, described by Giroud as 'a great pass, the perfect assist.' After scoring, Giroud slid to the corner flag and turned to find Mbappe jumping into his arms. 'I said to him 'you know how much I love you, bro',' Giroud recalled. 'It was such a special moment for me. He was so happy for me, and I am just as happy that it was him who has beaten me.'

Mbappe's misunderstood character

Giroud believes Mbappe is often misjudged as arrogant, when in reality he is confident and ambitious. 'He's always been someone who has had so much respect for former players,' Giroud said. 'Instead of arrogance, it's actually just confidence, and ambition, he shows when he talks.' Giroud noted that even as a teenager entering the France squad, Mbappe was mature and comfortable speaking about his game and aspirations. Now as captain, Giroud hopes Mbappe will lead France to a third World Cup title.

The striker's selfishness

Giroud also highlighted Mbappe's selfishness on the pitch, calling it a necessary trait for a striker. He recalled Mbappe's first World Cup goal against Peru in 2018, where Giroud's shot was blocked and looped over the keeper, only for Mbappe to tap it in on the line. 'The striker is always the most selfish player on the team - he has to be,' Giroud said. That goal came after Giroud had recovered from a severe cut requiring nine stitches, and after Deschamps had initially tried a different front three.