Olivier Giroud has come under fire from World Cup viewers, with many calling for the BBC to drop him from their punditry team. The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker, now at Lille, has struggled to win over audiences during the tournament's early stages.
Punditry Panel Under Scrutiny
The 39-year-old French international joins a lineup including Micah Richards, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thomas Frank, and Lucas Leiva. Giroud is still adapting to the role, delivering insights in his second language, but early reviews have been harsh.
Fan Reactions
After Belgium's goalless draw with Egypt, viewers took to social media to express their discontent. One fan remarked: "We've got to get rid of Giroud as a pundit, I can't keep doing this." Another added: "Olivier Giroud is struggling on BBC." A third commented: "Whoever it was at the BBC that thought Olivier Giroud could be a pundit made a disastrous decision. He's absolutely abysmal."
Some fans noted his monotone delivery: "Giroud doing his best to put everyone to sleep with his incisive analysis." Another said: "The BBC really need to make sure they don't have Olivier Giroud on as a pundit on late and overnight games if they want people to stay awake."
Factual Error Highlighted
Viewers also spotted a mistake when Giroud suggested Belgium could bring on Lois Openda, who was not selected for the World Cup squad. One fan pointed out: "Olivier Giroud has just said Belgium can bring on Lois Openda second half. Lois Openda wasn't selected by Belgium for the World Cup."
Another added: "I guarantee that I will never learn anything from Olivier Giroud's analysis. Punditry just isn't for you mate."
Defenders Speak Up
However, some fans defended Giroud, praising his analytical depth. One supporter speculated: "Olivier Giroud was a great player, as a pundit he's giving actually good analysis but he's got a bit of a monotone voice. Maybe nerves?" Another said: "Giroud is a fantastic pundit, sorry he doesn't fit the modern, gag-every-30-second model." A viewer added: "Love big Olivier Giroud btw. Bit of personality on the punditry is great."
BBC's Broader World Cup Criticism
The BBC has faced backlash for other World Cup coverage decisions, including a "desperate" tactic during Brazil's match against Morocco, where a QR code appeared on screen urging viewers to renew TV licences. Commentator Guy Mowbray stated: "A handy reminder that to enjoy the World Cup, you need a TV licence. If yours needs renewing, you can scan the code that's on your screen now."
