Unsurprisingly, the tributes followed one another after the announcement of the international retirement of Antoine Griezmann (137 caps 44 goals, 38 assists). And after Didier Deschamps and Raphaël Varane, it is the turn of the president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, to salute the Atlético de Madrid player’s career with the Blues.
“As Antoine Griezmann announces his international retirement, the first word that comes to mind is thank you. Thank you to the immense player who brought so much to the French team. Thanks to the wonderful footballer, this fantastic left-hander, who made us all dream with his exploits. Thanks to the man, warm, humble, generous, always close to the supporters. Antoine Griezmann has left his mark on the history of the French team in an exceptional way. Over the course of a decade in the French jersey, he was one of the major architects of the Blues’ greatest successes, first and foremost the victory at the 2018 World Cup. He also delighted us during the Euro 2016, in which he finished best player and top scorer. His statistics bear witness to the historical mark that he will leave in the annals of French football: third most capped player with 137 caps, and the most selected in the final phase, 4th top scorer with 44 goals, best decisive passer. Beyond these fantastic figures, I want to salute Antoine Griezmann’s unwavering love for the blue jersey. He showed absolute, exemplary loyalty to the French team. How can we not be amazed by his improbable record of 84 consecutive matches, or six years without interruption. Antoine Griezmann once again spontaneously and sincerely demonstrated his attachment to France during the Olympic Games in Paris. For everything he accomplished and what he represents, Antoine Griezmann is a legend of the French team and of French and world football. I only have one word to say to him: thank you. Thank you for everything »declared the leader on the official website of the FFF.
