Griezmann helped France win the 2018 World Cup under coach Didier Deschamps. [Getty Images]
France national team forward Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from the national team.
The 33-year-old Atlético Madrid player has scored 44 goals in 137 appearances for his country, and scored the penalty in France’s 4-2 World Cup final over Croatia in Moscow in 2018, helping his team win the World Cup. Contributed.
He also won the 2021 Nations League with his country.
“I close this chapter of my life with a heart full of memories. Thank you for this wonderful tricolor adventure. See you again,” he said in a video posted on social media.
“After 10 amazing years filled with challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, the time has come for me to turn the page and make way for a new generation.
“It was an honor and a privilege to wear this jersey.”
Griezmann started for France in September’s 3-1 Nations League defeat to Italy, but his last appearance came as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Belgium three days later.
He revealed his decision ahead of the next international break in October, when France play Israel and Belgium in the Nations League.
Griezmann made his debut under Didier Deschamps in 2014 and has been a key member of France’s national team ever since.
At Euro 2016, he was the top scorer with six goals, and the hosts, France, lost to Portugal in the final and finished as runners-up.
Griezmann also played in the 2022 World Cup final, where France lost to Argentina on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Griezmann missed out on being named captain of his country alongside Kylian Mbappe in March 2023 following the retirement of Hugo Lloris, but admitted he found the decision “difficult” ahead of Euro 2024.
However, France did not perform well in the tournament in Germany, losing to eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals.
“We’ve had a long discussion about this [his retirement] “Recently,” said Deschamps, “Since his debut with the French team 10 years ago, we have built a relationship based on trust and candor.
“Even if his club career is not over, Antoine will remain a monument to French football and one of the greatest players in history.
“I was often told that he was my favorite. We certainly have a very strong relationship and that will never be undermined. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything, Gurizo .”
