“It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life. Thank you for this magnificent tricolor adventure and see you soon», wrote Antoine Griezmann on his X account. The Atlético de Madrid striker announced his international retirement this Monday morning after more than ten years spent in the French team jersey. “Today, it is with deep emotion that I announce my retirement as a player for the France team. 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“, he explained in particular in a video.
Proud to have been a driving force for the Blues since his debut against the Netherlands (2-0) on March 5, 2014, Antoine Griezmann wanted to thank with emotion the people he worked with during his time in the French jersey: “wearing this jersey was an honor and a privilege. Since March 2014 and until last September, I had the chance to experience incredible moments alongside exceptional teammates. We shared victories that will remain forever engraved in our memories. So thank you for these precious memories we created together. I would also like to thank the supporters who have always been there in moments of joy and those of doubt. Your passion, your fervor and your loyalty have been a real source of energy for me. A huge thank you also to the staff of the French team and to all the people who worked behind the scenes in Clairefontaine and on the road.»
A little word for Didier Deschamps
He also had a little word for coach Didier Deschamps who launched him and supported him during his 137 caps where he scored 44 goals and delivered 38 offerings: “your trust and support throughout my international career have been essential in my development as an athlete. I leave the French team with a deep feeling of pride and gratitude. I had the honor of representing our country and the chance to experience extraordinary moments like becoming world champion. I will continue to follow the Blues with passion and support this team which has given me so much. I am convinced that the future is bright. I can’t wait to see the next generation shine. Many thanks to all of you for your love and support. See you soon. Anthony.»
Legend of the French team, the native of Mâcon will have marked the last decade of the Blues. Unhappy finalist of Euro 2016, he left his mark on the competition by being the top scorer with 6 goals. During the 2018 World Cup, he was one of the leaders of the team which was world champion against Croatia (4-2). If Euro 2020 and Euro 2024 will have been more complicated for the one we nickname Grizou, he also had other good moments like the Nations League won in 2021 against Spain (2-1) or the 2022 World Cup despite the final defeat against Argentina (3-3, 4-2 in the Tab) where he delivered an exceptional tournament. Ten years of the French team and success have just been turned around with the retirement of Antoine Griezmann.
