Los Angeles FC striker Olivier Giroud was thrust into the spotlight for reasons beyond soccer this month after a burglary at his west Los Angeles home. Police confirmed they responded to a smashed window at the French star’s residence on February 5, with intruders targeting an upstairs bedroom.
The 38-year-old athlete, who joined LAFC in May after storied careers at Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan, is now grappling with the invasion of his personal space just days before his team’s MLS season opener against Minnesota United. “This is a deeply unsettling situation for Olivier and his family,” a team spokesperson stated, declining further comment.
Giroud’s illustrious career includes:
- 285 club goals across 716 matches
- A 2018 World Cup win with France
- Champions League glory with Chelsea in 2021
The break-in highlights growing concerns about athlete security in major cities. Over 12 professional sports stars have reported home invasions in Southern California since 2020, according to LAPD records.
As LAFC prepares for Saturday’s game, fans speculate whether the burglary might affect Giroud’s focus. The striker has been practicing with the team this week, but security experts urge high-profile athletes to implement advanced protective measures.
“Celebrity homes are increasingly targeted during public events,” warned security analyst Marco Rodriguez. “Proactive surveillance is non-negotiable.”
This incident follows multiple high-profile burglaries targeting European soccer stars in the U.S., raising questions about MLS clubs’ responsibility for player safety off the field.