Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from international football, ending a decade-long career with the French national team. The move marks the end of an era for French football, as the Atletico Madrid forward bows out after wearing the tricolour jersey 137 times.
At 33, Griezmann has chosen to turn the page with emotion, sharing his message on social media: “It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life.” His international record is impressive, winning the World Cup in 2018 and appearing in the Euro 2016 final as top scorer.
With 44 goals, Griezmann sits fourth on the list of all-time leading scorers for the French national team, behind legends such as Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry and Kylian Mbappe. His major contribution to the World Cup victory in Russia will be remembered, as will his performance at the recent World Cup in Qatar, where France lost the final to Argentina.
Griezmann’s retirement is part of a broader transition for the French team, with the successive departures of iconic figures such as Hugo Lloris, Raphael Varane and Olivier Giroud. Coach Didier Deschamps will have to deal with these absences in the upcoming Nations League matches.
This announcement marks the end of a golden era for French football, but also paves the way for new talent and a new generation of players. Antoine Griezmann leaves behind an exceptional legacy and will forever remain an iconic figure in French sport.