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Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker reveals he had the chance to join Borussia Dortmund

Olivier Giroud was apparently considered by Dortmund when he was looking for a way out of Arsenal, but his wife objected a Germany move.

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 9:00 AM
Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker reveals he had the chance to join Borussia Dortmund
Key Things to Know
  • Olivier Giroud revealed his wife vetoed a potential transfer to Borussia Dortmund in January 2018.
  • Giroud opted instead for a permanent 17 million euro transfer from Arsenal to Chelsea.
  • The move allowed Arsenal to sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, while Dortmund signed Michy Batshuayi as his replacement.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former France striker Olivier Giroud revealed he had the opportunity to join Borussia Dortmund in January 2018, but his wife vetoed the move. Seeking regular playing time ahead of the 2018 World Cup, Giroud sought a departure from Arsenal. However, his pregnant wife opposed moving to Germany, leading him to decline Dortmund's interest.

Instead, Giroud secured a permanent 17 million euro transfer to Chelsea, allowing his family to remain in London. His transfer triggered a chain of moves, with Arsenal signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Dortmund and the German club taking Michy Batshuayi from Chelsea.

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