In the recent month, Chelsea fans have been on an emotional rollercoaster, witnessing their team’s impressive triumph over Aston Villa in the FA Cup contrasted with disappointing performances in preceding Premier League matches.
The inconsistency under manager Mauricio Pochettino has been apparent, particularly in defensive vulnerabilities and struggles to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Notably, summer signing Cole Palmer is the sole Chelsea player to reach double digits in goals across all competitions this season, reflecting poorly on the club’s stature.
Surprisingly, Olivier Giroud, who was sold for a mere £1 million a couple of years ago, has outshone Chelsea’s current players this season.
Despite his illustrious career as France’s leading goalscorer and a World Cup winner, Giroud’s departure highlights deeper issues within the club.
Chelsea’s acquisition of Giroud in 2018 from Arsenal for £18 million seemed justified, given his reduced game time at Arsenal due to Alexandre Lacazette’s arrival.
During his Chelsea tenure, Giroud made significant contributions, amassing 39 goals and 14 assists in 119 appearances, averaging 0.44 goal involvements per match—a commendable return on investment.
While Giroud may not have been the most celebrated player at Chelsea, his presence coincided with the team’s second Champions League victory, where his six goals in the tournament underscored his importance.
However, his subsequent transfer to AC Milan for a meager £1 million, while understandable given his age, now appears shortsighted in light of his stellar performances since joining the Italian club.
Upon joining AC Milan, Giroud swiftly adapted to his new environment and played a pivotal role in the team’s success, contributing to their first Serie A title in 11 years.
This turn of events has left Chelsea fans pondering the decision to let go of a player who has continued to shine at the highest level.
Giroud’s impact at AC Milan has emphasized his enduring quality and raised questions about whether Chelsea could have benefited from his experience and goal-scoring prowess.
As Chelsea grapples with inconsistencies and offensive struggles, Giroud’s success at AC Milan serves as a reminder of what the club may be missing.
The decision to part ways with the experienced striker for a nominal fee, while potentially driven by various factors, now appears as a missed opportunity for Chelsea, especially in their pursuit of consistent success across domestic and European competitions.
In the ever-evolving landscape of football, hindsight often magnifies the significance of player departures.
Giroud’s journey from Chelsea to AC Milan stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport, leaving both Chelsea and their fans reflecting on the consequences of parting ways with a player who continues to defy expectations and contribute significantly on the European stage.
