France boss stunned as World Cup winner and 137-cap legend shockingly RETIRES from international duty
FRANCE star Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 33.
The Atletico Madrid player made 137 appearances for his country, scoring 44 goals in that time.
Griezmann has been a key member of the France squad under manager Didier Deschamps since making his debut under him in 2014.
The LaLiga winger’s social media statement read: “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.”
Deschamps said: “We’ve had a long discussion about his retirement recently.
“Since his debut in the France team 10 years ago we’ve had a relationship based on trust and frankness.
“Even if his club career is not over, Antoine will remain a monument of French football, one of the greatest players in its history.
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“It was often said that he was my favourite. We indeed had built a very strong relationship, that will remain intact.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything, Grizou.”
Griezmann helped his nation win the 2018 World Cup.
His Man-of-the-match performance put France 2-1 ahead with a penalty before a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Russia six years ago.
The end of his World Cup adventure was marked by another final at Qatar 2022, playing 71 minutes of France’s eventual shootout defeat to Argentina.
He was announced as the nation’s new vice-captain following the retirement of Hugo Lloris, with Kylian Mbappe named skipper in March 2023.
He featured in all six games of Euro 2024, before crashing out in the semi-finals to winners Spain.
He started for France in a 3-1 Nations League defeat by Italy in September, before his last appearance came as a sub in a 2-0 win against Belgium three days later.
Griezmann has revealed his decision prior to the next international break in October when France play Israel and Belgium in the Nations League.
He also won the 2021 Nations League with his country.
The forward was top scorer at Euro 2016 with six goals as hosts France finished runners-up, losing to Portugal in the final.