The France striker completed a £12million move from French champions Montpellier yesterday.
He is the Gunners’ second big-name signing of the summer following the £11m arrival of Lukas Podolski from Cologne last month.
And the fact manager Arsene Wenger has shelled out for two new strikers has left some fans fearing Van Persie could be heading for the Emirates exit door.
However, Giroud played down those fears by revealing he has been brought in to challenge the Dutch superstar for a starting spot.
He said: “When you make the decision to join a great club, you know there is already a great forward.
“I know what to expect. Van Persie is a fantastic player who was outstanding last season.
“He has been at Arsenal for eight years, I hope I will have time to adapt and improve. Anyway, I don’t go there to take his place.”
Giroud scored 21 goals in 36 league appearances as Montpellier claimed the French title last season.
And the 25-year-old claims he snubbed interest from Champions League winners Chelsea before agreeing to move to North London.
Giroud added: “I chose Arsenal over Chelsea because they are a club I love and I thought it would be easier for my adaptation.
“Arsenal are a great club, the facilities are wonderful, but I feel it is a club that takes big care before signing a player, notably considering human values.
“There are French players. There is also Arsene Wenger who let me understand he really wanted me.
“Chelsea is very nice, it is a great club, but I am not convinced Roberto Di Matteo knows who I am.”
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