Griezmann Bids Farewell to National Team: Deschamps' Utility Man and Fan-Favorite Star
Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from the French national team via his personal page. The 33-year-old Atlético Madrid forward, who has been a part of the French team since 2014, wrote: "Today, with deep emotions, I announce my retirement from the French national team. After 10 incredible years filled with success and unforgettable moments, it’s time to close this chapter and make room for the new generation. Wearing this shirt was a special opportunity and an honor. From March 2014 to this September, I had the privilege of experiencing amazing moments alongside exceptional teammates. We shared many successes that will remain etched in our minds forever."
The 2014 World Cup was Griezmann’s first tournament with the French national team, where he had an outstanding performance. At Euro 2016, he scored 6 goals and provided 2 assists, earning him the title of top scorer and best player of the tournament. However, France suffered a surprising loss to Portugal in the final and missed the chance to lift the trophy in front of their home fans. Two years later, in Russia, Griezmann achieved his greatest success with the national team, winning the World Cup. He had another brilliant tournament and was awarded the Bronze Ball as the third-best player, behind Luka Modric and Eden Hazard.
He was part of France's successful generation, alongside players like Lloris, Varane, Pogba, and Giroud, and helped France win the UEFA Nations League in 2021. A year later, Griezmann and his teammates had the chance to win back-to-back World Cups but lost to Argentina in the final after a penalty shootout. During the tournament, Didier Deschamps opted to use Griezmann in midfield, a position outside his usual role, where he excelled and became one of the tournament’s standout players.
After Lloris' retirement, Griezmann had hoped to be named the new captain of the French national team. However, Deschamps chose to give the armband to the younger Kylian Mbappé. Things didn’t go well for Griezmann in Euro 2024, where he was benched in several games. After the tournament, the Atlético Madrid striker said that Deschamps’ frequent changes to his position didn’t allow him to perform at his best. Griezmann started in France’s loss to Italy in the Nations League but was only subbed in during the final minutes of their last game against Belgium, suggesting that he realized his role as a key player had diminished.
Over his 10-year stint with the national team, Griezmann was one of France’s key players, with some experts considering him one of the greatest in the team's history. His dedication and work ethic made him a fan favorite. With 137 international caps, Griezmann ranks third in France’s all-time appearance list, tied with Giroud, and behind Lloris and Lilian Thuram. Griezmann has scored 44 goals for France, placing him fourth in the national team’s all-time top scorers list, after Giroud, Henry, and Mbappé. He also holds the record for the most assists in French national team history, with 33 assists.
