October 1 – France forward Antoine Griezmann has called time on his decade-long international career with his national team, the 33-year-old Atletico Madrid forward announced via Instagram on Monday.
Since making his debut against the Netherlands in March 2014, Antoine Griezmann has netted 44 times in 137 appearances for Les Bleus. In the history of the French men’s national team, only Olivier Giroud (57), Thierry Henry (51), and Kylian Mbappé (48) have outscored him, placing Griezmann among the all-time greats of French football.
“It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life. Thank you for this magnificent tricolour adventure and see you soon.
“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.”
Griezmann has been Didier Deschamps’ most-used player across the manager’s 12-year reign as France boss.
His time in the national team is topped by win at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, scoring a goal in Les Bleus 4-2 victory over Croatia in the final. He was also a key player in France’s Euro 2016 campaign on home soil, where he picked up the player of the tournament award and the golden boot despite the 1-0 loss to Portugal in the final.
However, he achieved European success in 2021 when France triumphed at the UEFA Nations League Finals.
He occupied a variety of positions under Deschamps, moving from striker to midfielder to accommodate rising star Kylian Mbappe and veteran goalscorer Olivier Giroud, who also retired from international duty earlier this year.
Only Hugo Lloris (145) and Lilian Thuram (142) have received more caps for France – Giroud is currently level with Griezmann on 137.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1735114167labto1735114167ofdlr1735114167owedi1735114167sni@g1735114167niwe.1735114167yrrah1735114167