Wendie Renard, France’s captain and star player, recently announced her retirement from the national team, shocking fans and fellow players alike just months before the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The 32-year-old defender made the announcement on social media, citing her unhappiness with the current situation with France’s staff and manager Corinne Diacre.
“I love France more than anything, I’m not perfect, far from that, but I can no longer condone the current system far from the requirements of the highest level,” said Renard.
Despite the unfortunate news, Renard’s impressive career with the national team cannot be ignored.
Here’s a look at some of Wendie Renard’s most notable achievements:
- 142 Appearances and 34 Goals
Wendie Renard has been one of the greatest footballers to ever represent France, and her contributions to the national team are significant. Renard made a total of 142 appearances for the national team, during which she scored 34 goals. She was a crucial player in the French defense and a reliable goal scorer. She was also the captain of the team, and her absence is likely to have a significant impact on their performance.
- Eight Uefa Women’s Champions League Titles
Wendie Renard is a legendary figure at her club, Olympique Lyonnais. Renard’s most significant achievement in club football is undoubtedly the eight Uefa Women’s Champions League titles she won with Olympique Lyonnais, where she also serves as captain. This impressive record has made her one of the greatest footballers in France’s history. She is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world.
- Highest Appearances in Women’s Champions League
Renard has made the most appearances in the Women’s Champions League, with 108 games played. She is also the first player to reach a century of games in the competition.
- Named to FIFPRO World XI
Wendie Renard’s exceptional performances for Lyon earned her a place on the FIFPRO World XI in 2018, an honor is given to the top eleven players in the world.
The stones it takes to do this are immense. I've always liked Wendie Renard. If she feels that stepping away from the France national team is her best option, I support her. ✊🏾👑 https://t.co/T4kUydQryU
— Paul Dawkins (@Paul__Dawkins) February 24, 2023
Despite her impressive achievements, Renard has been critical of the French national team’s system under Diacre’s leadership. In 2017, Renard was stripped of the captaincy after Diacre claimed that her level was not high enough. This was despite Renard’s excellent performances in the league, Champions League and being named to the FIFPRO World XI.
Wendie Renard’s announcement has sent shockwaves through the French football community, with many expressing their sadness at her decision. Fans have taken to social media to thank her for her contributions to the national team and to wish her well in her future endeavors.
With Renard’s retirement, France will have to look to other players to step up and fill the void left by the legendary defender. There are several players in the team who have the potential to do so, including Amel Majri, who has made 71 appearances for the team, and Grace Geyoro, who has made 40 appearances.
The French national team will now have to work hard to ensure that they are prepared for the World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in 2023. With Renard’s absence, they will need to focus on improving their team and ensuring that they have a strong and united squad that can compete at the highest level.
Wendie Renard, on the other hand, will be focusing on her club career, where she will be looking to help Olympique Lyonnais defend their European title this year. The team is set to face Chelsea in the quarter-finals, and Renard will be hoping to lead her team to victory once again.
While Renard’s decision to retire from international football is a loss for France, her remarkable achievements will be remembered for years to come. Her decision also highlights the importance of players’ mental health, and it’s essential for the teams and staff to prioritize their players’ well-being.
Wendie Renard’s retirement from international football has come as a shock to many, and her contributions to the French national team will be missed. However, she has made the decision that she feels is best for her, and fans around the world will continue to support her as she focuses on her club career. France will have to work hard to fill the void left by Renard, but with the talent, they have on their team, they are capable of achieving great things in the future.
As Wendie Renard focuses on defending her European title with Lyon, fans and fellow players alike will undoubtedly continue to celebrate her impressive career in football.
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