AAP Soccer

Griezmann in shock retirement from French national team

By AAP Newswire

Sep 30, 2024

France midfielder Antoine Griezmann announced the end of his international career on Monday after being coach Didier Deschamps's most important player for a decade, during which he won a World Cup title.

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The 33-year-old, who struggled at this year's Euros, was one of the key elements in the 2018 and 2022 World Cup campaigns as Les Bleus took the title in Russia and finished runners-up in Qatar.

"Today, it is with deep emotion that I'm announcing my retirement as a player of the France team," the Atletico Madrid player said on social media.

"After 10 incredible years marked by challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to turn a page and make way for the new generation.

"Wearing this jersey was an honour and a privilege."

'Grizou', a favourite among his teammates and fans, was also the top scorer at Euro 2016 when France reached the final, only to be beaten by Portugal after extra time at the Stade de France.

Griezmann won 137 caps for France, scoring 44 goals, and imposed himself as a versatile player in Deschamps's midfield.

He played a French record of 84 consecutive matches with Les Bleus, a number that underlines his status as the national team's most valuable player of the past 10 years.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press