Antoine Griezmann has retired from international football after 10 years with the French national team, the player announced on Monday.
Griezmann, 33, was an important part of the French teams that reached three major finals – losing the Euro 2016 final on home soil, winning the 2018 World Cup and being beaten in the 2022 World Cup final – as well as winning the 2021 UEFA Nations League final .
The Atlético Madrid striker's last appearances for France came in this month's Nations League games after he was part of the team that was beaten by Spain in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.
Editor's Tips
1 relative
“I close this chapter of my life with a heart full of memories,” Griezmann posted on social media. “Thank you for this great tricolor adventure and see you soon.”
“Today it is with deep emotion that I announce my resignation as a player for the French national team,” said Griezmann. “After ten incredible years of challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to turn the page and make room for the new generation.”
“Wearing this jersey was an honor and a privilege… I leave the French national team with a feeling of pride and gratitude. I had the honor of representing our country and the chance to experience extraordinary moments, such as becoming world champion.”
“I will continue to follow Les Bleus with passion. I believe the future is bright and can’t wait to see the next generation shine.”
Antoine Griezmann was part of the France team that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2024 this summer. (Photo by Grzegorz Wajda/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Griezmann made his France debut in March 2014 in a 2-0 friendly win against the Netherlands. His coach throughout his international career has been Didier Deschamps, who has coached his country since 2012.
In 2016, Griezmann played seven games as France reached the European Championship final, where they lost 1-0 to Portugal.
Two years later, he started every game as France won the World Cup in Russia, scoring four goals, including a penalty in the final against Croatia.
When France reached the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where they lost to Argentina on penalties, he earned praise for playing a more reserved role in midfield.
Griezmann played a total of 137 games for France, scoring 44 goals. He started for Atlético in their 1-1 derby draw against Real Madrid in LaLiga on Sunday.
The striker has often said that he would like to finish his club career in the MLS.
