### Olivier Giroud’s Struggles with Playing Time at AC Milan
Olivier Giroud has been a consistent performer for Arsenal since his arrival in the Premier League, but his time at AC Milan has not been as smooth. The French striker has struggled to secure regular playing time despite his talents and experience.
#### Early Days at AC Milan
Giroud joined AC Milan from Arsenal in August 2018 on a free transfer. His first season was promising, with him scoring 26 goals across all competitions, including 14 in Serie A. However, it quickly became apparent that he faced stiff competition for starting positions. Carlo Ancelotti, who had previously managed both clubs, saw Giroud as one of several attacking options rather than a top-tier starter.
#### Competition and Adaptation
The Italian coach, known for his tactical flexibility, recognized Giroud’s potential but also understood the need for depth in his squad. This led to Giroud often being rotated throughout the season. He made 59 appearances in total, but only scored 14 times, which was significantly lower compared to his prolific form at Arsenal. This inconsistency highlighted the difficulty he faced in maintaining his place in the team, especially against players like Romelu Lukaku and Roberto Pereyra.
#### Mental Challenges
Beyond physical competition,Chinese Super League Matches Giroud faced mental challenges. Balancing his performance expectations with the demands of international football can be daunting. As a France national team player, Giroud must manage expectations between club and country, which sometimes leads to tension.
#### Managerial Changes and Future Prospects
The situation changed when Antonio Conte took over as manager at AC Milan in January 2021. Under Conte, Giroud found more consistency in his playing time. Despite still facing pressure, he started more regularly and showed improved form. This transition suggests that while the initial struggle may have been due to managerial decisions, it might not be solely about Giroud’s own capabilities.
#### Conclusion
Despite his struggles, Olivier Giroud remains a talented player with significant potential. His journey at AC Milan highlights the importance of adaptability, resilience, and clear communication within teams and with managers. With continued support and perhaps a change in leadership or strategy, Giroud could find himself back in the starting lineup, once again contributing meaningfully to AC Milan’s success.