Samir Nasri Confirms Retirement from French National Team
Samir Nasri has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his turbulent relationship with the French national team. The 27-year-old midfielder, currently playing for Manchester City, confirmed his decision in an exclusive interview with The Guardian.
Nasri had hinted at the conclusion of his international career in recent days, stating that he had made his decision long ago but intended to reveal it thoughtfully rather than through social media. He emphasized the seriousness of the announcement, describing the need for a comprehensive interview rather than a brief statement on platforms like Twitter.
Reflecting on his journey, Nasri revealed that his decision was rooted in experiences dating back to the 2012 European Championship. “I was already thinking about it after Euro 2012,” he said, “this is just confirmation of what I already thought.” Despite being only 27, Nasri expressed doubts about his future under Didier Deschamps, the current French coach. “As long as the coach is there, I don’t think I have a chance after everything that’s happened.”
Nasri’s disenchantment with the national team appears deeply personal. He highlighted the negative impact his international career had on both himself and his family. “Every time I go back, it just makes the problems worse. I have to face accusations that concern me, and my family is suffering,” he said. “I don’t want to make them suffer anymore, and that’s why it’s better for me to stop and focus on my club career.”
The former Arsenal and Manchester City star earned 41 caps for France during his international tenure, a period marked by both promise and controversy. His relationship with coach Didier Deschamps deteriorated significantly over time, particularly after an incident involving Nasri’s partner, who publicly insulted Deschamps on social media following Nasri’s omission from the national squad. This episode effectively ended any possibility of reconciliation or return to the team.
Nasri’s decision marks the end of a complicated chapter in French football. Once regarded as one of the nation’s brightest talents, his international career was overshadowed by off-field conflicts and clashes with management. Despite his undeniable skill and creative flair, these tensions curtailed what many believed could have been a more illustrious tenure with Les Bleus.
As Nasri shifts his focus entirely to club football, questions remain about the future of the French midfield under Deschamps and how emerging talents will fill the void left by players like Nasri. For now, the Manchester City playmaker’s international career is firmly closed, marking a significant moment in French football history.
