Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud scored the opening goal in the UEFA Europa League final and appeared to have celebrated the goal against his old club, but the former Arsenal striker has revealed why he celebrated the goal that won him the highest goal scorer.
Chelsea ran out 4-1 winners against their London rivals at the Baku International Stadium in Azerbaijan on Wednesday. A brace from Eden Hazard and strike from Pedro saw Blues manager Mauricio Sarri lift the first trophy of his managerial career.
Giroud opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 49th minute with a stooping header, which led many to wonder if he’d celebrate scoring against his old side. Surprisingly, the World Cup Winner didn’t hold back his celebrations, widly embracing his team-mates.
After the match, the France international was quizzed about his decision to celebrate in front of his former team-mates and the fans who used to adore him. The 32-year-old revealed that prior to kick-off he had no intention of celebrating against Arsenal but was so overcome by emotion he couldn’t help but express his delight.
“It was an interesting first half but there were no goals. It was a good final and we have been better, more efficient in the second half,” the Frenchman said in his post-match interview.
That goal was Olivier Giroud’s 11th goal in the UEFA Europa League and also his 18th goal of the season in all competitions.