**Observations on Olivier Giroud's Midfield Rating in the Context of AC Milan's Debut Season**
As one of the most experienced and versatile midfielders in world football, Olivier Giroud has consistently impressed throughout his career. His ability to play as both a forward and midfielder, combined with his exceptional goal-scoring record, has made him a valuable asset to any team. In this article, we will delve into Olivier Giroud's performance during AC Milan's debut season, examining how he contributed to the club's success and assessing his overall rating.
### Introduction
Olivier Giroud made his professional debut for AC Milan on July 18, 2016, when he signed from Arsenal for a reported fee of £45 million. The move was widely anticipated, as Giroud had been a regular fixture at Arsenal for several years under Arsène Wenger's guidance. The opportunity to join AC Milan, which is known for its strong defensive structure, presented a unique challenge for the Frenchman, who had previously played predominantly in the attacking midfield role.
### Performance Analysis
During his first season with AC Milan, Giroud demonstrated remarkable adaptability and versatility. He quickly integrated into the squad, making appearances across multiple positions, including left wing-back, right back,La Liga Frontline central midfield, and even striker. This multifaceted approach allowed him to contribute significantly to the team's defense while also providing offensive threat.
#### Defensive Contributions
Giroud's defensive abilities were evident from the outset. As a left wing-back, he provided solid coverage and support for the full-backs, helping to maintain tight discipline and prevent goals. His presence in the backline helped to limit the space available to opposition forwards, thereby reducing the chances of scoring opportunities.
#### Midfield Impact
In the central midfield role, Giroud showcased his technical skills and tactical awareness. He frequently used his pace and dribbling ability to break up attacks and create openings for his teammates. His ability to control the tempo of games and make quick decisions on the ball earned him respect from his teammates and opponents alike.
#### Offensive Potential
Despite playing primarily in the defensive midfield, Giroud demonstrated his offensive potential through his shooting accuracy and goal-scoring record. During his debut season, he scored four goals in 17 league matches, showcasing his ability to find the net from various angles. His creativity and vision in the box also contributed to the team's overall offensive output.
### Overall Rating
Considering Olivier Giroud's contributions to AC Milan's debut season, his overall rating can be described as commendable but not outstanding. While he excelled in his defensive duties and displayed significant offensive potential, his performances in the central midfield role could have been more consistent and impactful.
### Conclusion
Overall, Olivier Giroud's debut season with AC Milan was marked by his adaptability, versatility, and consistency in different positions. Although he did not achieve the same level of success as some of his peers, his performances were notable and helped to establish him as a key player for the club. As AC Milan continues to develop their squad, it remains to be seen whether Giroud will continue to excel in his position or if he will need to shift to a more traditional attacking role.