By Reeturaj - Oct 02, 2024
French midfielder Antoine Griezmann announces retirement from international football after a successful career that included winning the World Cup and earning 137 caps for France. Griezmann played a crucial role in France's World Cup campaigns in 2018 and 2022 and leaves a legacy as one of Les Bleus' most valuable players over the past decade.
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French midfielder Antoine Griezmann, a cornerstone of the national team for over a decade, announced his retirement from international football on Monday. The Atletico Madrid player, who won a World Cup title, shared his decision on social media, "Today, it is with deep emotion that I'm announcing my retirement as a player of the France team." The 33-year-old, Griezmann played a crucial role in France's successful World Cup campaigns in 2018 and 2022. He was a key contributor as Les Bleus clinched the title in Russia and finished runners-up in Qatar. Beloved by teammates and fans alike, 'Grizou' also claimed the top scorer award at Euro 2016, though France ultimately fell to Portugal in the extra-time final at the Stade de France.
Griezmann, who amassed 137 caps and scored 44 goals for France, was a versatile asset under Deschamps, excelling in various midfield roles. While the captaincy transitioned to Kylian Mbappe following Hugo Lloris's retirement, Griezmann remained a respected and influential figure within the team. Griezmann's remarkable record of 84 consecutive appearances for Les Bleus underscores his status as the national team's most valuable player over the past decade. In addition to his World Cup success, Griezmann contributed to France's victory in the 2021 Nations League. His goal-scoring prowess solidified his position as the team's fourth all-time leading scorer. Griezmann has made over 500 appearances in La Liga, representing Real Sociedad, Atletico Madrid, and Barcelona. In the current season, he has contributed three goals in nine matches across all competitions for Atletico.
"After 10 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." His last international match took place on September 9, also as a substitute, in a 2-0 victory over Belgium in Lyon. Griezmann, who consistently expressed gratitude for his often understated role on the national team, became the second key player to retire from international football after Olivier Giroud, the team's all-time top scorer.