LIVE. Antoine Griezmann: A surprise international retirement caused by Deschamps ? A troubling decision

Thunderbolt in the football world with the international retirement of Antoine Griezmann this Monday, September 30.

&To everyone's surprise, Antoine Griezmann, star and co-captain of the French team, announced his international retirement on Monday, September 30th through a simple and not very talkative press release: "It is with a heart full of memories that I close this chapter of my life. Thank you for this magnificent tricolor adventure and see you soon." It is a big page for the Blues that is turning with the retirement of "Grizou". The man with 137 caps and 116 starts was no longer really in the wind in Didier Deschamps' sails in recent weeks after a bad Euro. His status has changed and Didier Deschamps no longer saw him as an indispensable element. Perhaps the reason for his surprise international retirement…

“After ten incredible years marked by challenges, successes and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to turn the page and make way for the new generation,” he said in a video compiling images from his career with Les Bleus. Wearing this jersey has been an honour and a privilege. Since March 2014 and until last September, I have had the chance to experience incredible moments alongside exceptional teammates. We have shared victories that will forever remain etched in our memories.”

Live

11:22 – A surprise announcement before the list

Antoine Griezmann announced his international retirement this Monday while the Blues were due to gather for the rest of the Nations League in a few days. A decision taken at the last minute and which disrupts Didier Deschamps' list this Thursday.

11:17 – Thanks to Deschamps

“Your trust and support throughout my international career have been essential to my development as an athlete” said Antoine Griezmann to his coach Didier Deschamps.

11:11 – Griezmann's press release

The Frenchman announced his international retirement via social media in a simple press release accompanied by of a video showing his exploits with the Blues.