Olivier Giroud has withdrawn from the France squad after suffering an ankle injury and Milan are anxious that he could be unavailable for the upcoming derby with Inter.
The 36-year-old striker was forced off the pitch in the 26th minute of Les Bleus’ Euro 2024 qualifier win over Ireland. He was later seen on the bench clutching an ice pack to his left ankle, looking frustrated.
Giroud has now left the France squad to return to Milan, where his condition will be closely monitored as he works on his recovery.
As highlighted by Corriere dello Sport via TMW, Milan are seriously concerned that Giroud could be forced to the sidelines for their fast-approaching Derby della Madonnina with Inter, which’ll take place on September 16.
Stefano Pioli is starting to draw up a plan B, should the Frenchman be missing, and he seemingly has two options: Luka Jovic or Noah Okafor. Both are currently away on international duty.
The Serbian striker still hasn’t trained at Milanello yet but his experience in Serie A means he could still be handed the starting shirt.
Milan will only make a final decision regarding Giroud in the days leading up to the derby, preferring to start the reliable Frenchman.