Olivier Giroud, the striker for Los Angeles FC, has expressed that the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup presents a valuable opportunity to highlight Major League Soccer as the tournament commences this weekend.
LAFC is among three MLS teams participating in the 32-team tournament, which starts in Florida on Saturday. The opening match features Lionel Messi and Inter Miami squaring off against Egyptian club Al-Ahly.
The Seattle Sounders also join the ranks of MLS teams competing in the tournament.
Giroud, a former French international who joined LAFC last year after a successful three-season stint with AC Milan, shared his thoughts with reporters on Thursday, asserting that MLS is “underrated” on the global stage.
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“It’s an honour to represent this incredible club, but we also recognise that we’re representing the entire MLS,” Giroud stated.
“I believe Seattle and Miami share that sense of responsibility. This league is underrated; much of that stems from the limited global exposure it receives,” added the 38-year-old. “I’m hopeful that a strong performance from us will showcase the quality of this league.“
LAFC earned their spot in the Club World Cup through a quick playoff arrangement last month, following the unexpected exit of Mexican side Leon.
The MLS squad is placed in a group alongside Premier League giants Chelsea, Brazil’s Flamengo, and ES Tunis from Tunisia.
Giroud noted that LAFC will open the tournament against his former club Chelsea on Monday, entering the match as the “underdogs.” He encouraged his teammates to embrace this status.
“This is something we can take pride in, and I hope Chelsea, Flamengo, Tunis, and all the other teams understand the quality and commitment of our players when they leave the pitch,” he remarked.
“If we finish every match with that respect, we can hold our heads high.“
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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