Amandine Henry Retires from International Football at 35
Amandine Henry, a stalwart of the French national women's football team, has announced her retirement from international football at the age of 35. The announcement came via her social media channels on October 13, 2024, marking the end of a remarkable 15-year career with Les Bleues, during which she earned 109 caps and scored 14 goals.
In her heartfelt statement, Henry reflected on her journey, stating, "After so many years of passion, challenges and unforgettable memories, it is time for me to turn the page. It is with great emotion that I announce to you today my decision to end my career with the French team." She expressed immense pride in wearing the national jersey and the joy of sharing experiences with her teammates.
Henry's career with the national team began on April 22, 2009, and she served as captain from 2014 to 2020. However, her journey was not without challenges. After publicly criticizing former coach Corinne Diacre's management in 2020, she faced a three-year absence from the team. It wasn't until the appointment of Hervé Renard in 2023 that she made her return, ultimately playing her last match during the quarter-finals of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games against Brazil, where France was eliminated.
Despite her contributions and leadership, Henry's international career concluded without any major trophies. The current French team is now under the management of Laurent Bonadei, and Henry leaves behind a legacy of dedication and passion for women's football.