After a remarkable journey spanning a decade, Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from international football with the French national team.
The 33-year-old forward, currently playing for Atletico Madrid, shared this significant decision through a heartfelt video on Instagram, marking the end of an era.
Reflecting on a Memorable Career
In his emotional message, Griezmann expressed, “It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life.
Thank you for this magnificent tricolour adventure and see you soon.”
He emphasized that, after ten incredible years filled with challenges and triumphs, the time has come for him to step aside and pave the way for a new generation of talent.
Griezmann added, “Wearing this jersey was an honour and a privilege.”
A Legacy of Goals and Achievements
Griezmann made his debut for Les Bleus in March 2014, playing against the Netherlands, and went on to make 137 appearances for the national team, scoring an impressive 44 goals.
He ranks fourth on the all-time list of France’s top scorers, behind only Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, and Kylian Mbappe.
In terms of caps, he stands alongside Giroud, while only Hugo Lloris and Lilian Thuram have more appearances for France.
His international career highlights include winning the FIFA World Cup in 2018, where he scored in the final against Croatia, and reaching the final again in 2022, where France fell to Argentina in a penalty shootout.
Griezmann also showcased his talent at the European Championship, earning the Golden Boot in 2016, although France lost to Portugal in the final that year.
Nonetheless, he found success in 2021, contributing to France’s victory in the UEFA Nations League Finals.
The End of an Era
Griezmann’s final appearance for France came earlier this month when he played as a substitute in a 2-0 victory over Belgium in the Nations League.
Looking ahead, the French national team is set to face Israel in their first game of the post-Griezmann era on October 10.
Although officially a home game for Israel, the match will be held in Budapest, Hungary.
As fans and teammates celebrate Griezmann’s illustrious career, the football world looks forward to seeing how France will evolve without one of its most influential players.
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