In a surprise announcement on Monday, September 30, Antoine Griezmann, the 2018 World Cup champion, declared his retirement from the French national team via social media. The 33-year-old Atlético Madrid striker, with 137 caps and 44 goals for Les Bleus, has decided to end his international career.
“It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life,” Griezmann wrote. In an accompanying video, he elaborated, “Today, it is with deep emotion that I announce my retirement as a player of the French team. After ten incredible years, marked by challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to turn a page and make way for the new generation.”
Reflecting on his time with the national team, Griezmann stated, “Wearing this jersey has been an honour and a privilege. Since March 2014 and until last September, I have had the chance to experience incredible moments alongside exceptional teammates. We have shared victories that will remain forever etched in our memories.”
This unexpected decision comes just days before Didier Deschamps is set to announce the next squad for upcoming Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium.
Griezmann’s final appearance for France was on September 9th in a Nations League match against Belgium. In his farewell video, he expressed gratitude to the fans: “Your passion, your fervour and your loyalty have been a real source of energy for me.” He also thanked the national team staff, particularly coach Didier Deschamps: “Your trust and your support throughout my international career have been essential to my development as an athlete.”
Concluding his statement, Griezmann said, “I am leaving the French team with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. I had the honour of representing our country and the chance to experience extraordinary moments, such as becoming a world champion. I will continue to follow Les Bleus with passion and support this team that has given me so much. I am convinced that the future is promising, and I look forward to seeing the next generation shine.”
Griezmann has been a pivotal figure in the French squad since his debut under Didier Deschamps in 2014. He was the top scorer in Euro 2016 with six goals, helping France reach the finals. The striker also played a crucial role in France’s 2022 World Cup campaign, featuring in the final, where they lost to Argentina on penalties after a 3-3 draw.
In March 2023, Griezmann was passed over for the captaincy in favour of Kylian Mbappe following Hugo Lloris’ retirement. He admitted to finding the decision “tough” to take but continued to play for the national team, including at Euro 2024, where France reached the semi-finals before losing to eventual winners Spain.
Deschamps, reflecting on Griezmann’s retirement, said, “We’ve had a long discussion about [his retirement] recently. Since his debut in the France team 10 years ago, we’ve had a relationship based on trust and frankness.” He added, “Even if his club career is not over, Antoine will remain a monument of French football, one of the greatest players in its history. It was often said that he was my favourite. We indeed built a very strong relationship that will remain intact. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything, Grizou.”
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.