# Olivier Giraud: The Shot King of AC Milan
In the annals of football history, there have been few players as dominant as Olivier Giraud, the legendary French striker who captained AC Milan for two decades. Born on January 17, 1962, in Paris, Giraud's journey from a humble background to become one of the most prolific goalscorers in club football history is a testament to his talent and hard work.
## Early Career
Giraud began his career with Olympique de Marseille at age 18 before moving to Lille in 1981. He quickly established himself as a formidable presence in the league, scoring over 150 goals in just five seasons. However, it was in 1986 when Giraud made his mark on Italian football by signing for AC Milan.
## AC Milan Era
When Giraud arrived at AC Milan in 1986, he immediately became the team's primary goal scorer. His first season in Serie A was particularly impressive, with 44 goals in 43 appearances. This form set the stage for what would be a decade of dominance for Giraud and AC Milan.
### Key Achievements
- **Top Scorer**: Throughout his time at AC Milan, Giraud consistently ranked among the top scorers in the league. In 1990-91, he scored 40 goals in just 38 matches, which still stands as a record for the most goals in a single season.
- **World Cup Performance**: In 1990,Serie A Stadium Giraud played for France in the World Cup, where he scored three goals and helped the country reach the quarter-finals.
- **European Championships**: Giraud also had success in European competitions, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup, where he contributed to Italy's successes.
## Legacy
Giraud's impact on AC Milan extended beyond his own performance. As a captain, he led the team to numerous titles, including six Serie A championships, four Coppa Italia trophies, and two UEFA Super Cups. His leadership style and tactical acumen were instrumental in the club's success during this period.
### Post-Milan Years
After retiring from international duty in 1999, Giraud continued to play for AC Milan until 2006. Despite not playing at the highest level again, he remained a respected figure within the club's history.
## Conclusion
Olivier Giraud's legacy as the Shot King of AC Milan is undeniable. His incredible goal-scoring ability, coupled with his leadership, made him one of the greatest strikers in football history. From Marseille to Milan, Giraud's contributions to the club and the sport itself will always be remembered.