Striker Olivier Giroud of Los Angeles FC believes the FIFA Club World Cup presents a valuable opportunity to highlight Major League Soccer (MLS) as the tournament is set to commence this weekend.
LAFC is one of three MLS teams participating in the 32-team tournament, which kicks off in Florida on Saturday, featuring Lionel Messi and Inter Miami going head-to-head with Egyptian club Al-Ahly.
The Seattle Sounders also represent MLS in this prestigious event.
Giroud, a former France international who joined LAFC after a stint with AC Milan, expressed to reporters on Thursday his view that MLS is “underappreciated” on the global stage.
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“We’re proud to represent this fantastic club, but we also recognise that we are representing MLS,” Giroud stated.
“I believe Seattle and Miami share this sense of responsibility. This league doesn’t get the recognition it deserves globally,” the 38-year-old commented.
“We hope to demonstrate the quality of our league with a strong performance.
LAFC earned their spot in the Club World Cup after a last-minute playoff arrangement due to the unexpected withdrawal of Mexican side Leon.
The MLS club finds itself in a group alongside Premier League’s Chelsea, Brazil’s Flamengo, and Tunisian outfit ES Tunis.
Giroud noted that LAFC will face his former team Chelsea on Monday as the “underdogs,” and he has encouraged his teammates to welcome this designation.
“It’s a label we can take pride in, and I hope that after facing Chelsea, Flamengo, Tunis, and the other teams, they leave with a newfound respect for our players’ quality, intensity, and commitment,” Giroud said.
“If we exit the pitch after every match with that in mind, we will feel proud of our efforts.“
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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