Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud is set for a first return to London, after departing Chelsea in the summer of 2021.

Giroud spent nine years in London in total – six years at Arsenal and three years at Chelsea.

It was at Chelsea, he won the Champions League in 2021, and Giroud still has fond memories of his time at the club.

Speaking about his return to England’s capital, Giroud told MilanTV: “I think it’ll be a special game for the team because it’s a great Champions League match-up.

“It’s also personally for me, as I spent nine years in London playing for Arsenal and Chelsea, so I expect it to be a great game.

“It’s always a pleasure when the people you met while playing for your former clubs have so much respect for you, also because I want to be seen not only as a good player on the pitch, but also a good person off it.

“I have many friends in London. I have a lot of hope for our Champions League journey this season.

“I am very proud of this squad and I think we can do well with this group of players in the Champions League.

“This match can also give the team great confidence if we win, to boost us for the next games.

“Chelsea have just one point so far, so they will play aggressively and in an energetic way, aiming for the win, so we expect a tough game.”

The 36-year-old striker has had a fine start to the season, scoring five goals and registering an assist across his first 10 matches in all competitions.