Did Griezmann retire from international football? The answer is yes — and it marked the end of a storied era with Les Bleus. But the story is deeper: his exit carries legacy, emotion, and a gaze toward the future of France’s national team. Today, DeutKick will accompany you in exploring his farewell, the reasons behind it, his international record, and what this means for France going forward.
Griezmann’s decision: When and how he announced it
On 30 September 2024, Griezmann revealed on social media that he was stepping away from the France national team “with the most profound emotions.” He framed the choice as a turning of the page — “after 10 incredible years marked by challenges, successes and unforgettable moments.”
Prior to that announcement, the forward had been a fixture in Didier Deschamps’s selections, often starting or being among the key subs. His decision came just before upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, catching many by surprise.
He later affirmed that the decision is final — he has stated he would not reverse course and return to international duty.
The international legacy: caps, goals, and honors
Griezmann’s time with France was rich in milestones and contributions. Here’s a breakdown of his achievements:
|
Metric |
Value |
|
France caps |
137 |
|
Goals for France |
44 |
|
Major tournaments played |
6 (Euro 2016, Euro 2020, Euro 2024, World Cups 2014, 2018, 2022) |
|
Key honors |
2018 FIFA World Cup winner; UEFA Nations League title; top scorer at Euro 2016 |
He ranks among the most-capped French players and sits high on the goal-scoring list. Over time, he evolved from a forward/winger into a more versatile, midfield-support role, especially in the latter part of his international career.
One remarkable statistic: Griezmann once held a run of 84 consecutive appearances for France, a national record streak, until an injury halted it in March 2024.
Reasons and context behind his international retirement
Retiring from international football is seldom a purely sentimental or abrupt decision at Griezmann’s level. Several factors likely played into his choice:
1. Age, wear, and club focus
At 33, balancing the grind of club football with international demands becomes more taxing. Griezmann may have wanted to preserve his body, manage fatigue, and focus more exclusively on his club career (at Atlético Madrid, at the time).
2. Succession planning for France
In his announcement, Griezmann emphasized giving space to “a new generation.” France is remarkably deep in attacking talent — Kylian Mbappé, Randal Kolo Muani, and younger prospects are pushing. His exit paves clearer paths for emerging names.
3. Emotional and timing considerations
The decision came not long after Euro 2024, where France reached the semifinals but didn’t lift the trophy. Perhaps the conclusion of that campaign crystallized for Griezmann that his international chapter was complete. He framed his departure with gratitude and serenity, suggesting it was a measured and heartfelt choice rather than rash.
4. Physical setbacks
Even before his retirement, in March 2024, an ankle injury forced him to miss friendlies — ending his consecutive-match streak. That moment may have signaled to him that his body was beginning to pull back.
How his exit changes the landscape for France
Griezmann’s departure leaves a vacuum in several dimensions — experience, leadership, and tactical flexibility.
- Loss of an adaptable figure: Over his international tenure, Griezmann frequently adapted to different positions and roles. His ability to drop into midfield, drift wide, or support strikers was valuable to Deschamps’s system.
- Leadership gap: As vice-captain, he had a voice in the dressing room. A younger generation must step up to fill that dynamic.
- Tactical reshuffling: Without Griezmann available, France may lean more heavily on Mbappé, but may also diversify forward options or even shift formations.
- Opportunity for youth: Players on the fringe now have more room to break in. That aligns with Griezmann’s stated hope: to give place to new faces.
Critically, France’s core remains strong. But losing a proven, reliable, multi-tactical performer like Griezmann will require adjustment.
Did he leave the door open to a comeback?
Although the retirement was firm in his words, fans and pundits always wonder: could Griezmann ever return?
- He explicitly stated he does not plan to reverse his decision.
- No public backtracking has surfaced.
- Given his tone and timing, this appears to be a definitive farewell.
In short: while in football surprises happen, it seems unlikely he will wear the tricolor again.
Comparison with other stars who retired early
Griezmann is not alone — many top players stepped away.
- Lionel Messi briefly announced international retirement in 2016 before returning.
- Zlatan Ibrahimović retired.
- Wayne Rooney and Arjen Robben retired, Griezmann’s tone and finality suggest he wants a clean break.
Did Griezmann retire from international football? Final verdict
Yes — Antoine Griezmann officially retired, closing a decade-long career with Les Bleus marked by 137 caps, 44 goals, and a haul of honors. His decision appears irreversible, intended to open the door for France’s next generation and to allow him to concentrate on his club chapters.
Final Thoughts
Did Griezmann retire from international football? Indeed, he did — and with it ended one of France’s most versatile and beloved eras. His departure leaves emotional weight, tactical gaps, and an invitation for France’s rising stars to seize new roles. As supporters, we bid farewell to a legend’s international story — but the next chapters for him at club level and for Les Bleus are already unfolding.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into Griezmann’s international retirement, be sure to explore more content here at DeutKick: biographies of France’s next generation, historic records of Les Bleus, or tactical previews for upcoming France fixtures.
