EKO HOT BLOG reports that France striker Antoine Griezmann is said to be contemplating international retirement following the appointment of Kylian Mbappe as the new captain of the national team. The development comes after Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris stepped down from international duties, leaving the position vacant.
According to French newspaper L’Equipe, national team coach Didier Deschamps has picked Mbappe, 22, as the team’s new skipper. However, this decision has reportedly angered Griezmann, who was hoping to take on the leadership role himself.
The 32-year-old Griezmann has represented his country 117 times since his debut in 2014, scoring 42 goals in the process. He is widely regarded as one of France’s most important and experienced players.
Sources suggest that Griezmann believes his vast international experience, combined with his loyalty to Deschamps, made him a strong contender for the captaincy. He also reportedly felt that he would be a less divisive choice among the French squad than Mbappe, who has sometimes been criticized for his perceived arrogance.
It remains to be seen whether Griezmann will indeed retire from international football, but the news is likely to come as a blow to the French team, who are currently preparing for the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The situation is likely to develop over the coming days, with fans and analysts watching closely to see how Griezmann and the French team respond to the news.
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