Antoine Griezmann, a player with talent as sharp as a razor, has just bowed out. Yes, you read that right, the maestro of the Blues surprised everyone by announcing, this September 30, his international retirement. At 33 years old, the one nicknamed “Grizou” turns the page after a decade marked by brilliant performances, sparkling victories, and a few more wrinkles on the faces of his opponents. With 137 caps, he leaves the field with the grace of a star dancer, equaling Olivier Giroud as the third most capped player in the history of the Blues.
But that’s not all! His three children share an anecdote as unusual as an acrobatic overhead kick: they were all born on April 8. Coincidence or a wink from fate? Perhaps in the Griezmann family, April 8 is a day blessed by the gods of football and parenthood.
In a poignant video posted on his X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram accounts, Griezmann confides: “After 10 incredible years, it’s time to pass the torch to the new generation.” And what a generation! The decision to leave the Blues came after a discreet return to the team in September, like a final tango before the grand departure.
A record as stellar as his tattoos
Antoine Griezmann, it’s the story of a kid from Mâcon who became a national hero. His career with the Blues began in March 2014, during a match against the Netherlands. But it was during Euro 2016 that “Grizou” set the football world on fire, winning the title of best player of the tournament, despite a painful final against Portugal. Two years later, in 2018, he reached the pinnacle of football by lifting the World Cup in Russia. Scoring a goal in the final and providing two assists, Griezmann definitively inscribed himself among the legends of French football, a place reserved for those who carve their names into history with precise passes and iconic celebrations.
In 2021, he did it again, this time with the Nations League, adding another trophy to his collection. This victory against Spain also marked his 100th cap, a number that, in the world of football, is equivalent to entering the pantheon of immortals.
Deschamps’ cherished child
One cannot talk about Griezmann without mentioning his close relationship with Didier Deschamps, the coach who always considered him his favorite. Griezmann was somewhat the extension of Deschamps’ right arm on the field, the trusted man, the one who never faltered under pressure. However, despite this almost paternal relationship, the meteoric rise of Kylian Mbappé changed the dynamics. Deschamps’ choice to hand the captain’s armband to Mbappé might have created a slight chill between the two men, as if the old lion felt the breath of the young feline ready to take his place.
A bittersweet exit after Euro 2024
It was after a more than disappointing Euro 2024 that Griezmann made his decision. Relegated to the bench during decisive matches, he understood that his time was up. His last match as a starter dates back to September 6, during a defeat against Italy. An exit that has the bitter taste of disillusioned tomorrows, even if his last hurrah against Belgium on September 9 will remain etched in memories. His farewell? Discreet, almost melancholic. His record? 137 caps, 44 goals, and 30 assists.
A football myth
Antoine Griezmann leaves an indelible mark on French football. By lifting a World Cup and stringing together legendary performances, he joins the very exclusive circle of giants like Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini. His versatility, sense of sacrifice, and ability to elevate the team made him an irreplaceable pillar of the French team.
Now, “Grizou” will dedicate himself to Atlético de Madrid and his family life. A proud father of three children, he recently shared his desire to spend more time with them. Perhaps the next chapter of his story will be written on another field, more personal, where he will continue, in his own way, to leave a lasting impression.