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Antoine Griezmann, a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, announced his departure from international football on Monday, ending a remarkable 10-year stint with the national team.
In a heartfelt statement on X, the 33-year-old France vice-captain expressed his deep emotions, stating, “It is with a heart full of memories that I am closing this chapter of my life.” He also shared a video where he noted, “It is time for me today to turn a page and hand over to the new generation.”
Griezmann, who plays for Atletico Madrid, began his international career in March 2014 and has earned 137 caps, making him one of France’s most capped players, behind only Hugo Lloris and Lilian Thuram. He ranks fourth among France’s top goal scorers with 44 goals, trailing only Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, and Kylian Mbappe.
Among his significant contributions was scoring in the 2018 World Cup final against Croatia in Moscow. Griezmann also led his team to the Euro 2016 final as the tournament’s top scorer. He played a crucial role in France’s journey to the 2022 World Cup final and was part of the team that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
Griezmann’s last appearance for France was in a Nations League victory over Belgium in Lyon, close to his hometown of Macon. Despite recent assurances about continuing his international career, Griezmann has chosen to step down.
Didier Deschamps, France’s coach, expressed his emotional response to Griezmann’s retirement, acknowledging their strong personal bond and Griezmann’s significant impact on the team.
This announcement follows the retirement of other key French players like Lloris, Raphael Varane, and Giroud, marking the end of an era for the French national team.
Looking forward, Deschamps will soon announce the squad for upcoming Nations League matches against Israel and Belgium, although Mbappe will miss these games due to an injury. Griezmann remains optimistic about the future, eager to see the new generation of players take the stage.
