By Antoine Griezmann, a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup victory, announced his retirement from international soccer on Monday, ending a decorated 10-year career with the national team.
The 33-year-old Atletico Madrid forward, known affectionately as “Grizou,” made the surprise announcement via social media, catching many in the soccer world off guard.
“It’s with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life,” Griezmann wrote on Instagram. “Thank you for this wonderful tricolor adventure and see you soon.”
Griezmann’s international career spanned 137 matches for France, during which he scored 44 goals, placing him fourth on the country’s all-time scoring list behind Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, and Kylian Mbappe. Only Hugo Lloris and Lilian Thuram have more caps for Les Bleus.
France national team coach Didier Deschamps praised Griezmann’s contributions, saying, “Antoine was and will remain a monument to French football, one of the greatest players in its history.” Deschamps highlighted Griezmann’s “selflessness that is rare among attacking players.”
Griezmann’s international achievements include:
– 2018 FIFA World Cup winner
– 2016 European Championship runner-up and Player of the Tournament
– 2021 UEFA Nations League winner
His versatility and work rate made him a crucial component of the French squad, contributing not just in attack but also in defensive duties.
The timing of Griezmann’s retirement has raised eyebrows, coming after France’s semifinal exit in the 2024 European Championship and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. His final appearance for France was as a substitute in a 2-0 Nations League victory over Belgium in September.
Griezmann’s decision comes after he was passed over for the national team captaincy in favor of Mbappe following Hugo Lloris’ retirement. While acknowledging this as a difficult moment, Griezmann expressed gratitude to Deschamps in his retirement message.
The forward’s departure marks the end of an era for French football and opens opportunities for younger talent to step into his role. As France looks ahead to future tournaments, the national team will need to adapt to the absence of one of its most influential players of the past decade.
Griezmann continues his club career with Atletico Madrid, where he is the all-time leading scorer. His current contract with the Spanish club runs until 2026.
