Giroud Lauds Morata and Abraham and Defends Leao

Olivier Giroud is keeping up with all things Milan from the United States and talked highly of his successors Alvaro Morata and Tammy Abraham. He spoke with La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“The attack is their strength. They diversified well after I left. They have seven forwards considering also Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, Noah Okafor, and Samuel Chukwueze. I don’t know if any other team in Italy and Europe can boast so much variety and complementarity.”

“Morata and Abraham form a great couple and work great together. I’ve known the latter since my Chelsea days. He has desire and determination. Alvaro brought the Spanish culture: he tracks back, distributes the ball, helps the build-up, and connects the midfield and the frontline.”

Giroud thinks Milan can be a serious candidate for the Scudetto.

“They must believe in it because the management had a great summer. They onboarded precise reinforcements, and those who were already with them started very well, for instance Pulisic. Things will be clearer in a month. If they were still near the top in a close-quarter fight, I could see the comparisons with our previous title.”

Giroud defended Leao, who’s often criticized for his attitude.

“He’s a technical leader and inspires his teammate on the pitch, like Theo Hernandez. Each player has his own personality. You can’t force anybody’s character, and you can’t expect him to have charisma at all costs. Mike Maignan is there for that. He’s impactful through his plays and goals. The most difficult thing is to be at your peak every week. It’s up to him and to how demanding he’ll be with himself. Fatherhood will help him grow.”