Paris: Antoine Griezmann, the star forward of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning team, officially announced his retirement from international football on Monday, concluding a remarkable 10-year career representing his country.
The 33-year-old Atletico Madrid player shared his emotional decision on social media platform X, stating, “It is with a heart full of memories that I am closing this chapter of my life.”
Griezmann debuted for the French national team in March 2014 and went on to earn 137 caps, making him one of the most capped players in the nation’s history.
He trails only former teammate Hugo Lloris, who holds 145 caps, and 1998 World Cup champion Lilian Thuram, who has 142.
With 44 goals, Griezmann ranks fourth on France’s all-time scorers’ list, behind Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, and current captain Kylian Mbappe.
The striker’s contributions were pivotal during his time with Les Bleus. He played a crucial role in France’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in the final of the 2018 World Cup in Moscow, where he scored a goal and provided an assist.
Prior to that, Griezmann was the standout player at Euro 2016, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, although France ultimately fell to Portugal in the final.
His performances at the 2022 World Cup further cemented his legacy, where he helped France reach the final, only to lose to Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Griezmann’s last major tournament, Euro 2024, was less successful, as the team could not find their rhythm and exited the competition in the semi-finals.
The announcement of his retirement is a significant moment for French football, signaling the end of an era.
Griezmann’s departure follows the retirements of key players such as Hugo Lloris and Raphael Varane, the latter having announced his retirement from football entirely last week at just 31 years old. Olivier Giroud also stepped back from international duty after this year’s Euros in Germany.
Griezmann’s last appearance in a French jersey occurred earlier this month during a UEFA Nations League victory against Belgium.
Following this, coach Didier Deschamps is set to announce the next France squad on Thursday, preparing for upcoming Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium on October 10 and 14, respectively.
Meanwhile, in the world of club football, Atletico Madrid salvaged a point in a tense Madrid Derby against Real Madrid. Angel Correa scored a last-gasp equalizer in the 95th minute, ensuring a 1-1 draw after Eder Militao had put Real Madrid ahead.
The match was marked by tension, including a 15-minute suspension due to crowd disturbances. Despite the late setback, Real Madrid continues to hold a strong position in La Liga, sitting second behind Barcelona.
Griezmann’s retirement from international football leaves a significant void in the French squad. His influence, skill, and leadership on the pitch will be sorely missed as the team looks to rebuild and prepare for future challenges on the international stage.
As fans and teammates reflect on his illustrious career, Griezmann leaves behind a legacy defined by remarkable achievements and unforgettable memories in the blue jersey.
