France’s 2018 World Cup-winning star Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from international football, ending a successful 10-year career with the French national team. The Atletico Madrid forward made his debut for France in 2014 and went on to earn 137 caps, making him one of the most capped players in French football history. Griezmann also ranks fourth in France’s all-time leading goal-scorers list with 44 goals to his name.
One of the highlights of Griezmann’s career was his performance in the 2018 World Cup final, where he scored a goal in France’s 4-2 victory over Croatia. He also played a key role in France’s run to the final of the 2022 World Cup, although they ultimately fell short and lost to Argentina in a penalty shootout. Griezmann’s last major tournament with France was Euro 2024, where the team made it to the semi-finals but failed to live up to expectations.
Griezmann’s retirement marks the end of an era for the French national team, with several other key players also stepping away from international duty in recent years. Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and centre-back Raphael Varane retired after the 2022 World Cup, while Olivier Giroud decided to stop playing for France following Euro 2024. The departures of these players signal a changing of the guard for the French team, as a new generation of talent emerges to take their place.
Despite his retirement from international football, Griezmann’s legacy as one of France’s greatest players is secure. His contributions to the team over the past decade have been significant, and he leaves behind a lasting impact on French football. As he closes this chapter of his career, Griezmann expressed gratitude for the memories and experiences he has had while representing his country on the international stage.
Looking ahead, France will now have to adjust to life without Griezmann and other veteran players as they prepare for future tournaments. The team will need to integrate younger players and build a new identity under the guidance of head coach Didier Deschamps. While Griezmann’s retirement marks the end of an era, it also opens up opportunities for the next generation of French talent to step up and make their mark on the international stage.
In conclusion, Antoine Griezmann’s retirement from international football is a bittersweet moment for French football fans as they bid farewell to one of their most iconic players. As he moves on to the next chapter in his career, Griezmann leaves a lasting legacy and a new generation of players will now have the chance to carry on the proud tradition of French football. His contributions to the national team will not be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as a key figure in France’s footballing history.
