Giroud compares Pulisic to Eden Hazard after his time at Chelsea

Former Chelsea and French national team striker Olivier Giroud has openly expressed his admiration for Christian Pulisic. According to Giroud, the American international reminded him of club icon Eden Hazard during their time together at Chelsea.

Giroud played for Chelsea from 2018 to 2021, where he shared the pitch with both Hazard and Pulisic. While Hazard became one of the best players in the club's history, Giroud saw similar qualities in Pulisic. "Christian reminded me of Eden Hazard, especially the way he sought out opponents and passed them effortlessly," Giroud said at the BBC. 'As a striker you benefit from speed and creativity around you, and Pulisic was able to play precisely between the lines, looking for openings and goal chances.'


Yet Pulisic failed to permanently profile himself as a basic player at Chelsea. The American moved to AC Milan in 2023, where he immediately made an impression by delivering 31 goals and 21 assists in Serie A. Pulisic also remains important for the United States at the World Cup; he recently provided an assist in the 4-1 win over Paraguay in the opening match. Pulisic now has four direct contributions to goals at World Cup final tournaments (one goal and three assists), just one fewer than Landon Donovan, who has held the American record since 1966.

Giroud further indicated that he was not surprised by Pulisic's performance with the American national team. 'It doesn't surprise me that he played so well against Paraguay. He has everything needed to help the US move forward these weeks.” The Frenchman nicknamed Pulisic 'Captain America' at Milan, due to his status and profile within both club and country. 'Even though he didn't always wear the captain's armband, he was the face and figurehead. No one expects the United States to win the World Cup, but if they want to reach the knockout stages, Pulisic will be crucial.”

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