In a move that surprised European football fans, the details of 's transfer from Atlético Madrid to Orlando City were officially announced. This move, coming as the current season draws to a close, brings to a close a long-standing relationship between the French star and the Madrid-based club. Atlético Madrid's all-time leading scorer reached a final agreement with the Florida-based club to join them on a two-year contract, embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious career.
A legendary journey: from Real Sociedad to the pinnacle of glory in Madrid
The French star's path to glory was far from easy. Griezmann first joined Atlético Madrid in 2014 from Real Sociedad, quickly establishing himself as the team's leading player. He made 488 appearances for Los Rojiblancos, with a brief stint at Barcelona in 2019, before returning to his boyhood club two years later, initially on loan and then on a permanent deal. During this long career, he scored 211 goals, surpassing the previous record held by the legendary Luis Aragonés to become the club's all-time top scorer. On the international stage, he won the 2018 World Cup with his national team before announcing his retirement from international football in 2024, having scored 44 goals in 137 appearances for Les Bleus.
Dimensions and details of Griezmann's transfer to Orlando City
The Spanish capital club explained in an official statement that the veteran striker traveled to Orlando with the club's permission during the first team's two days off to complete his medical examinations and finalize his contract. He is scheduled to begin his journey with his new team next July. This signing is a significant addition to the list of international stars who have flocked to Major League Soccer (MLS) in recent years, as he will join his former Barcelona teammates, Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, further enhancing the competitiveness and global appeal of the league.
The expected impact of the deal on the MLS and the future of Orlando
This deal holds significant importance both domestically and regionally in the United States. Orlando City, who have been in Major League Soccer since 2015 and have yet to win a title, are struggling after a poor start to the season, losing four of their first five games. Club owner Mark Wolf stated, “He is one of the most talented, accomplished, and influential players of his generation. His decision to join us reflects the vision and culture of our club.” Wolf added that the focus is on building a team capable of consistently competing for championships. From a marketing and sporting perspective, the French star's presence will boost the club's market value and increase ticket and jersey sales, as well as allow him to pass on his vast experience to the team's younger players, firmly establishing Orlando as a contender in the domestic league.
The final farewell... How will Griezmann end his journey with Atletico Madrid?
Despite his future being decided, Antoine Griezmann, 35, hopes to bid farewell to Atlético Madrid fans in the best possible way. He aims to conclude his tenth season with the club by winning a second major title, having led them to victory in the Europa League in 2018. Crucial challenges lie ahead, including a Champions League quarter-final clash with Barcelona next month, followed by a Copa del Rey final against his former club, Real Sociedad, scheduled for April 18 in Seville. In La Liga, Atlético currently sits in fourth place and is on track to secure a Champions League spot for next season, holding a commanding 13-point lead over fifth-placed Real Betis. Griezmann has demonstrated his commitment to the club until the very end, scoring 13 goals in 43 appearances under Argentine coach Diego Simeone this season.
