Antoine Griezmann: Atletico Legend
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A look back at Griezmann’s time in Madrid and where he’ll be next season.
Antoine Griezmann has confirmed he will be leaving Atlético Madrid after 5 seasons with the club.
The World Cup winner scored 133 goals and won 3 trophies during his time in Madrid, most notably winning the Europa League in 2018.
Despite being jeered by his own fans in his final match against Levante, everyone associated with Atletico will look back at his time at the club with great fondness.
Griezmann was signed from La Liga rivals Real Sociedad in July 2014. After scoring an impressive 22 league goals in his first season, the Frenchman was selected in the La Liga Team of the Year.
The following season he guided the club to the Champions League final, only to miss a penalty and eventually lose the match to bitter local rivals Real Madrid.
The 2016/17 season brought about the beginning of speculation about Griezmann’s future. His evident ability and consistent goals had made him one of the most sought-after players in Europe.
After months of uncertainty he decided to stay put and the following year scored twice in the Europa League final as Atletico beat French side Marseille 3-0 to lift the cup.
Following 20 league goals and a 2nd placed La Liga finish last season, Griezmann announced the 2018/19 season would be his last wearing the famous red and white stripes of Atlético Madrid.
The Frenchman was the top scorer in each of his 5 seasons with the club, averaging just over 26 league goals per season for Los Rojiblancos.
Atletico also didn’t finish outside the top 3 in La Liga in this time. Three 3rd placed finishes and two 2nd placed finishes were largely down to Griezmann’s goals and intricate link-up play.
With the forward now 28 years old, he must see now as his best opportunity to move elsewhere and win trophies with another club.
Barcelona are the firm favourites to acquire his services after reportedly confirming they are willing to trigger the €120 million buy-out clause in his contract.
He has been heavily linked with a move to the La Liga champions in the past but with the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Ousmane Dembele and Philippe Coutinho already at the club, there will be strong competition for places.
One thing is certain. Wherever he ends up next season, Antoine Griezmann will be sorely missed by Atletico Madrid.
He has enjoyed a remarkable 5 seasons with the club but feels the time is now right to move on.
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