PARIS, Feb. 1 (Xinhuanet) -- Striker Christophe Dugarry, who helped France win the 1998 World Cup as well as the 2000 European title, announced his retirement.

    "I made up my mind about four or five days ago," Dugarry, 32, was quoted as saying by sports daily L'Equipe.

    "Benfica offered to sign me but I didn't feel like going there to start all over again even if it was interesting from a financial point of view," said the former striker who has had 55 caps for France over a 15-year career.

    Dugarry made his international debut in a 1-0 victory over Australia in 1994 and headed home his country's opening goal in the 3-0 win over South Africa at the World Cup finals in 1998.

    He picked a thigh injury and returned only in time for the final against Brazil in Paris.

    In a rollercoaster career, Dugarry who started at Girondins Bordeaux in 1988, played for AC Milan, Barcelona, Olympique Marseille, Birmingham City and Qatar Sports Club.

    He last played for his country in the 2002 World Cup finals when France failed to go through the first round. Enditem