After the 3-1 defeat to Italy at the Parc des Princes, not all of the French players immediately left the pitch. One of them was Antoine Griezmann, who ran around the pitch to thank the fans. No one knew that this was his farewell to his international career.
No need for fireworks, no need for a replay of the best moments, Griezmann just wanted a private moment, a final moment of connection with his hometown fans. A simple act but filled with deep emotions.
Looking back at Griezmann’s career, it is easy to see that the 33-year-old star has been a key player in the three times the French team reached the final of major tournaments in the past eight years. “The Little Prince” has always known how to shine, not only in the French shirt but also at the club.
However, not many people really consider Griezmann as one of the best players to ever wear the Les Bleus shirt. Names like Zinedine Zidane, Michel Platini or Kylian Mbappe easily come to mind. However, someone like Griezmann who has contributed so much has not received an accurate assessment.
Antoine Griezmann is special, he does not lack talent or skill. It is his dedication and commitment to the team that makes the Atletico Madrid striker stand out. His personal achievements are always second to the team's overall success, always willing to do anything for the team.
Under the guidance of Didier Deschamps and Diego Simeone, two coaches known for their tactical discipline and fighting spirit, Griezmann not only complied but also found joy in the style of play that required endurance. The star born in 1991 did not object or complain when having to play in a pragmatic style.
On the contrary, he accepted and contributed in the best way. From there, Griezmann became a true warrior, a person who can do everything to bring victory to the team. Besides his talent on the field, Griezmann is also a person with the ability to inspire and bring hope to the French team in the most difficult moments.
"Griezmann is a monument, one of the greatest players in the history of French football. He always has a rare collective spirit and altruism. We have really established a very strong relationship and this relationship will remain intact" - Didier Deschamps shared.
Along with Hugo Lloris, Olivier Giroud, Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante, Griezmann has helped rekindle the French football fans’ faith in the national team. His record of 84 consecutive appearances for the “Galorenzo” from August 2017 to November 2023 is the clearest proof of his absolute dedication.
What makes Griezmann Deschamps' top choice is his versatility. The 33-year-old has played in six different positions during his time with France, from a target man to a central midfielder.
Now that journey is over. There will be no 138th cap or 45th goal for France, although Griezmann could go on and play at the 2026 World Cup.
Perhaps Griezmann felt that he was no longer Deschamps' first choice, especially when he was not a starter in the EURO 2024 semi-final. In addition, being overlooked for the captaincy role after Hugo Lloris retired and Kylian Mbappe was chosen contributed to Antoine Griezmann's decision.
