Antoine Griezmann explains leaving Atlético de Madrid to play in MLS with Orlando City By Beatriz
4 min read
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Antoine Griezmann announced this Wednesday the details that led him to end the cycle at Atlético from The 35-year-old French striker traveled to Estados Unidos to formalize the agreement with the Flórida club and gave an interview to MLS journalist Miguel Gallardo. Ele highlighted that the moment coincides with his sporting maturity and the ambition demonstrated by the American project.
The world champion player with França in 2018 emphasized that Orlando City presented a clear vision of the future from the first conversations. Griezmann traveled during the days off granted by Atlético of Madrid to complete the negotiations. The contract signed is for two years, until the end of the 2027-28 season, with an option to extend for another season, and he will act as Designated Player.
Club project and personal effort convinced the Frenchman
Griezmann revealed that the good relationship with director Ricardo Moreira weighed heavily on the decision. The club demonstrated both financial and logistical effort to make the transfer viable. Ele mentioned that he felt a strong personal bond already during the initial contacts in Madrid.
The attacker also valued the structure offered by Orlando City. Segundo him, the combination of project ambition and human connection made the proposal irresistible. Griezmann highlighted that the club is looking to build something big in the North American league.
- Clear ambition demonstrated in initial conversations
- Logistical effort to facilitate the player’s arrival
- Personal connection with board members
- Long-term vision for the Flórida team
Legacy in American football motivates the new challenge
The Frenchman sees the change as an opportunity to contribute to the growth of MLS. Ele argues that the arrival of experienced players helps raise the level of competition and inspires new generations. Griezmann stated that it is important to talk more about the league and motivate young local talents.
He showed enthusiasm about the possibility of winning titles on American soil. The striker declared that he really wants the MLS cup and intends to leave a mark of professionalism and success both in Orlando and throughout the league. Griezmann arrives willing to help the team achieve great goals on the field.
Arrangement details and arrival timetable
The agreement calls for Griezmann to complete the current season with Atlético of Madrid before joining Orlando City. The transfer takes effect in July, when the MLS secondary transfer window opens. Ele must inherit the number 7 shirt, the same one he wears in Espanha and in the French team.
The Flórida club officially announced the reinforcement on Tuesday. Griezmann is already preparing to join the squad and get to know the fans up close at Inter&Co Stadium. Ele expressed his desire to make Orlando his new home and feel the energy of the stadium.
Expectations for titles and league development
Griezmann repeated that the project presented by Orlando City convinced him due to its clarity of objectives. Ele wants to help the club win trophies and, at the same time, help MLS gain more global visibility. The player mentioned his desire to motivate younger generations with his experience.
The striker arrives after ten seasons at Atlético of Madrid, where he became the top scorer in the club’s history. Agora, he begins a new chapter focused on building a legacy in the Estados Unidos. The Orlando City board sees the signing as a milestone for the team and the league.
Adaptation and first steps in Orlando
The Frenchman must present himself to the team after the end of European competitions. Ele aims to quickly adapt to the MLS style of play and the local environment. Griezmann highlighted that he is looking forward to meeting his teammates and the fans.
The club is betting on the leadership and technical quality of the new reinforcement to improve the team’s performance. Griezmann arrives with the aim of raising the level of Orlando City and helping in the search for positive results throughout the season. Ele emphasized the commitment to giving your best on the field.
Griezmann added that the positive feeling with the project was decisive. Ele was motivated to begin this new stage and contribute to the growth of football in the Estados Unidos. The striker continues training with Atlético of Madrid while finalizing the details of the transfer.
