French international Franck Ribery has said that he has definitely played his last match at international level. The future of the Bayern Munich winger at international level has been highly speculated in recent weeks. After missing out on the World Cup 2014 due to an injury at the last moment, Ribery has been expected to come back to the international fold for the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. However, the 31-year-old surprised many by announcing his international retirement.
Ribery is considered as one of the troublemakers during the regime of Raymond Domenech, but as one of the best players in the world, he continued his presence in the national team. After his public announcement about the retirement, UEFA president Michel Platini said that he may consider banning Ribery. Frenchman Platini says that there is scope for such a ban given that Ribery would be violating the FIFA rules with regard to international call ups. However, Ribery has confirmed that he will be making no changes to his decision, as he wants to concentrate on his club career.
Ribery came close to winning the FIFA Ballon d’Or award last season after finishing second to Cristiano Ronaldo, but he was instrumental in Bayern Munich winning the treble in the previous campaign. Last season, he lifted the Bundesliga title and the German cup for the Bavarians. "I want to concentrate on my club. I will not change my opinion. I took this decision in consultation with (France manager) Didier Deschamps," said the 31-year-old has featured in 81 matches for the national team since his debut in 2006. He has managed only 16 goals from these matches.
Ribery’s time at international level will forever be remembered for the troubles with the national team after their early exits from the World Cup 2010 and the Euro 2008.