“I am very excited to begin this next chapter of my career,” said Antoine Griezmann, confirming his move to Major League Soccer side Orlando City SC from Atletico Madrid this summer. This transfer marks a significant milestone for the 35-year-old forward, who has had a storied career in European football.
Griezmann is not only the all-time leading goalscorer for Atletico Madrid, with 211 goals, but he has also made a substantial impact on the club since his return in 2021. Over his career, he has recorded a total of 298 goals and 132 assists across 792 professional appearances in Spain. His contributions have helped elevate Atletico Madrid’s profile on the international stage.
Having previously played for Real Sociedad and Barcelona, Griezmann’s move to Orlando City will see him join as a designated player when the MLS secondary transfer window opens in July. He signed a deal that could keep him at the club until 2029, indicating a long-term commitment to this new venture.
Griezmann’s performance this season has been notable, with 13 goals and four assists across all competitions for Atletico Madrid. His accolades include being named La Liga Player of the Year in 2015-16 and finishing third in the Ballon d’Or voting in both 2016 and 2018.
What observers say
Mark Wilf, co-owner of Orlando City SC, remarked, “Bringing Antoine to Orlando is a landmark moment not only for our club, but for our city, our supporters and for Major League Soccer.” This sentiment reflects the excitement surrounding Griezmann’s arrival and the potential impact he could have in the league.
Griezmann also expressed his eagerness to integrate into the Orlando community, stating, “I look forward to making Orlando my new home, meeting the supporters, feeling the energy at Inter+Co Stadium, and giving everything I have to help the team achieve great things.” His enthusiasm suggests a strong desire to contribute to the team’s success and connect with fans.
Ricardo Moreira, a key figure in the club, praised Griezmann, saying, “Antoine is a complete footballer – creative, intelligent, clinical – and he is a proven winner on the biggest stages of the game.” This endorsement highlights Griezmann’s reputation as a top-tier player and the expectations that come with his signing.
As Griezmann prepares for this new chapter, he leaves behind a legacy at Atletico Madrid, where he has won three trophies, including the 2018 Europa League and the 2018 UEFA Super Cup. His departure marks the end of an era for the club, but it also opens the door for new opportunities in the MLS.