“I close this chapter…,” French World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann emotionally announces international retirement
Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann announced his decision to retire from the France national team, ending his ten-year long stint.
Antoine Griezmann announced his retirement from the France national team. (via UEFA.com)
French World Cup winner and Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann shockingly announced his retirement from international football, at just the age of 33. The Atletico forward made the decision to depart the national team, after a much successful ten-year stint.
Antoine Griezmann announced his decision to retire on social media, thanking everyone who helped him in his journey. The 33-year-old played a key role in the France national side, which reached three major finals, at the 2016 Euros and the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. After making his international debut in 2014, Griezmann went on to make 137 appearances for the national team, while scoring 44 goals. This ranks him as France’s third-most capped footballer and the nation’s fourth highest goal-scorer.
Griezmann was a member of France’s victorious 2018 World Cup side, and was also named the Man of the Match in the final against Croatia. He also ended the 2016 Euros as the Player of the Tournament, and guided France to the 2022 World Cup final. Sharing an emotional video of his retirement, the Frenchman exclaimed that he was departing with a heart full of memories, and also highlighted the challenges he had faced. He also stated his intent to make way for the younger generation.
It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life… After 10 incredible years marked by challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to make way for the new generation.
Antoine Griezmann said on social media (via H/T: BBC)
🚨⚠️ BREAKING: Antoine Griezmann retires from international football.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 30, 2024
He won’t play for French national team anymore, decision made and confirmed.
“I close this wonderful chapter of my life, thanks for all the memories”, Griezou says. pic.twitter.com/CdBT6Sk9TX
Meanwhile, Griezmann also achieved European success for a second time, when he helped France triumph at the UEFA Nations League final. The forward has a historic 84-game streak with the national team, and last played for France in a 2-0 win over Belgium, in September.
France head coach Didier Deschamps leads tributes for retiring forward Antoine Griezmann
France national team manager Didier Deschamps paid tribute to 33-year-old forward Antoine Griezmann, following his decision to retire from national duty. The former Barcelona forward had been a pivotal player under Deschamps, leading the side to numerous tournaments.
The France head coach acknowledged the player’s decision, and highlighted the trust that he shared with Griezmann, over the past ten years. He also labeled the forward as the greatest player in French football history, while also commending his leadership abilities. Moreover, Deschamps praised Griezmann for his collective spirit as well as his altruism, lovingly naming him as ‘Grizou’.
Antoine has been and will remain a monument of French football, one of the greatest players in its history.
Didier Deschamps to reporters (via Bein Sports)
Griezmann is not the only French player to have retired recently, after Raphael Varane announced his decision to end his footballing career. The two players shared a great bond, and were a part of France’s 2018 and 2022 World Cup squads.
Siddhartha Roy
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