Total stupor. Antoine Griezmann, vice-captain of the France team, announced his international retirement this Monday to everyone’s surprise. Central player of the Blues, Didier Deschamps’ most important pawn for 10 years, the Madrilenian experienced a difficult Euro this summer and a return to school that was at least as difficult. But his performances at Atlético Madrid and his recent declarations did not suggest such a radical end between two entities that have given so much since 2014. There will inevitably remain a taste of unfinished business and real questions about the motivations for this choice. At this time, these are just guesses.
His farewell video published on X does not go into detail: “After 10 incredible years, it’s time for me to make way for the new generation“, writes Griezmann. But the international retirements of those closest to him (Lloris, Varane, Mandanda, Giroud), the long-term absence of Pogba have undoubtedly nourished his reflection. Just like his severe downgrading at the Euro and during the international return who noted that Didier Deschamps no longer made him an indisputable holder.
The relationship with the coach was damaged last summer but it is the basis of all the achievements of a Griezmann who needs, undoubtedly more than others, love and confidence to shine. Deschamps had given him less in recent months. If no one will ever be able to question the love that the Madrilenian has for the selection and his country, Deschamps undoubtedly sowed the seeds of his decision today the day he chose to give the armband to Kylian Mbappé rather than Antoine Griezmann. This day in March 2023, rumors of an international retirement were already buzzing in Clairefontaine. Griezmann ended up reconsidering his decision. But something had broken.
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