France International Antoine Griezmann announces his retirement from the French national team. The 33-year-old made 137 appearances for his country during which he scored 44 goals. He was also part of the 2018 World Cup-winning team, converting a penalty in the final as France defeated Croatia 4-2.
The Atletico Madrid player also lifted the 2021 Nations League with his country. Announcing his decision in a video posted on social media, Griezmann said, "It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life. Thank you for this magnificent tricolor adventure and see you soon."
He further appraised the successes and unforgettable moments from his ten-year international football career as "incredible" despite the challenges. However, he asserts it was now time for him to "turn a page and make way for the new generation."
“Wearing this jersey was an honor and a privilege,“ the forward concluded.
Antoine Griezmann started for France in a Nations League outing against Italy that ended 3-1 in favor of the Azurris in September. Three days later came Griezmann’s last feature for the French national team. He entered the game as a substitute to help France defeat Belgium 2-0.
His announcement comes before the next international break later this month. The next break will see France play Israel and Belgium in the Nations League.
France Manager Didier Deschamps Reacts to Griezmann’s Retirement
Griezmann has been a top feature in manager Didier Deschamps' squad since his first outing under Deschamps in 2014. His six goals at EURO 2016 saw him finish the competition as top scorer, while hosts France finished runners-up after losing to Portugal in the final. Griezmann also donned the French jersey in the 2022 World Cup final during which Argentina defeated France on penalties after a pulsating 3-3 draw. His retirement means that France would have to do without the prolific forward in the 2026 World Cup.
In 2023, Griezmann missed out on being named the captain of the national team to Kylian Mbappe after Hugo Lloris retired. Griezmann, who admitted the decision was "tough" to take, however, took the manager's decision in good faith before fielding for the national team at EURO 2024. Unfortunately, France struggled to maintain their characteristic top-tier performance as they lost to eventual winners Spain in the semi-finals.
While reacting to Griezmann's announcement, manager Deschamps says his 10-year professional relationship with the forward has been based on "trust and frankness". Deschamps went on to describe Griezmann as one of French football's greatest players ever who will remain a monument of French football.
“It was often said that he was my favorite. We indeed built a very strong relationship that will remain intact. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything, Grizou.”
Wrapping Up
Griezmann, who has been a significant member of France's squad under manager Didier Deschamps since his 2014 debut, will no longer don his country's colors in professional football. Deschamps, reacting to his retirement announcement, calls the forward one of the French national football team's greatest-ever players who will remain an icon of French football.