While the majority of Gunners fans are delighted with the signing of Olivier Giroud, a few are slightly concerned that he has been bought in a bid to soften the blow of Robin Van Persie’s possible departure. However, the former Montpellier man insists that he has no intention of replacing RVP and hopes that he can play alongside the Dutchman next term.
Giroud, who completed a long-winded £13m transfer earlier in the week, has stated that he is a big admirer of Van Persie’s abilities and is hopeful that he remains at the Emirates Stadium for the foreseeable future. Speaking to L’Equipe, Giroud said, “When you make the decision to join a great club, you know there is already a great forward. I know what to expect. Van Persie is a fantastic player who was outstanding last season. He has been at Arsenal for eight years, I hope I will have time to adapt and improve. Anyway, I don’t go there to take his place.”
Whether or not Giroud gets his wish is another matter entirely. It’s widely assumed that Gunners supporters won’t have to wait too long before the whole RVP saga is resolved, with the striker poised to meet with club officials in the very near future now that Euro 2012 is almost over.
However, there is no doubt that Arsene Wenger shares the wishes of Giroud and it is understood that the France international has been signed to play alongside Van Persie. In fact, Wenger’s primary wish is to create a front three out of RVP and new signings Giroud and Lukas Podolski. Considering the fact that the trio have scored 85 goals between them in all competitions this term, such a strike force would be simply frightening and could well put the Gunners in contention for a trophy. Only time will tell whether or not it will come to fruition.
