Antoine Griezmann Retires from International Football

Antoine Griezmann, the 33-year-old forward for Atletico Madrid has announced his retirement from international football after a remarkable career with France. Griezmann earned 137 caps, scored 44 goals and played a key role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph where he scored a penalty in the 4-2 win over Croatia in the final. He also helped France win the 2021 Nations League and was the top scorer at Euro 2016 where France finished as runners-up.

In a video posted on social media, Griezmann expressed gratitude for his international career, saying, “It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life. After 10 incredible years… it is time to make way for the new generation.” His last appearance for France came in September as a substitute in a 2-0 win over Belgium in the Nations League.

Antoine Griezmann has been a pivotal player under manager Didier Deschamps since his debut in 2014, featuring in major tournaments including the 2022 World Cup where France lost to Argentina in the final. Griezmann had hoped to captain the national team after Hugo Lloris’ retirement in 2023, but the role went to Kylian Mbappé. Though he found the decision tough, he continued to contribute to the squad until his retirement.

Deschamps praised Griezmann, calling him “a monument of French football” and “one of the greatest players in its history,” while Mbappé described him as “one of the most important players of the modern era” and thanked him for his contributions to France’s success. Griezmann’s retirement comes ahead of France’s next international fixtures in October, marking the end of a stellar 10-year international career.