Kylian Mbappe, the current captain of the French national football team, has opened up regarding his relationship with Antoine Griezmann, amid the latter's surprising retirement announcement from international football. Griezmann declared his retirement back in September 2024, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the motivations behind his decision. The 33-year-old Griezmann, who made 137 appearances for France, scored 44 goals, and was a pivotal part of the team that won the 2018 FIFA World Cup, took many by surprise with his announcement.
Speculation surged that Griezmann's retirement might be linked to Mbappe's ascension as the captain of the national side, particularly as he was appointed to the role following the retirement of legendary goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in 2023. In response to these claims, Mbappe has insisted that although their relationship can be complicated, there is no animosity regarding the change in captaincy.
"I can assure you that Antoine and I have a very good relationship," Mbappe shared. "In fact, he has already invited me several times to his house for a barbecue. But in Madrid, it is impossible to do so before the double header. It hasn’t happened yet, but it sure will, because we live next to each other in the same house."
Yet, the situation is not devoid of rivalry. Both players are part of clubs that have a fierce competitive history—Mbappe at Real Madrid and Griezmann at Atletico Madrid. "But after that, it's true that it's complicated because we're in a city where our two teams are real rivals," clarified Mbappe.
Mental strains during the lead-up to Griezmann's retirement were evident. Mbappe admitted that he was aware of Griezmann's decision prior to its official announcement, saying, “Not only did I know he was going to quit, but he explained why. But it's always the same, it's his decision, and only he can explain to you why he made that decision.” This statement indicates not only their camaraderie but also highlights the respect Mbappe holds for Griezmann's choices.
As both players prepare for the future, the national team faces a crucial month ahead. Mbappe is back in the squad, ready to lead France in two significant UEFA Nations League quarter-final matches against Croatia on March 20 and March 23, 2025. This is a critical juncture, not just for him but for a French squad that is looking to maintain its status among the world’s football elite.
The upcoming matches are an opportunity for Mbappe to solidify his captaincy and demonstrate his leadership potential. With Griezmann opting out, new players will need to step up to fill the void left by his experience and talent. However, the friendship between Griezmann and Mbappe may linger as a significant element in the French team dynamic.
The news surrounding Griezmann's retirement and Mbappe's subsequent remarks ripple through football circles, highlighting the intricate relationships that exist behind the scenes in the world of professional sports. As fans wait for further developments regarding the national team and managerial changes ahead—Didier Deschamps is set to leave following the 2026 World Cup—the future presents both challenges and opportunities.
In the wake of Griezmann's choice to retire from international football, Mbappe's position within the team becomes even more paramount. This period of transition could be just what the squad, and indeed Mbappe, needs to thrive moving toward a new era of French football. Keeping their friendship strong amid the competitive pressures of their club loyalties will be a test for the duo.
The world of football continues to grapple with the changes on both the national and club fronts, and the dynamics between players like Mbappe and Griezmann reveal much about the sport's personal aspects behind the glamour on the pitch. The upcoming period will undoubtedly be one to watch closely as both players navigate their paths forward in their careers—both for their clubs and the national squad.
