Atletico Madrid fans were left in disbelief this week as the story unfolded that Antoine Griezmann appeared to be leaving the club. Although the French icon has been given the chance to leave in the Copa del Rey this summer, he appears closer to leaving the club than staying.
Reports emerged earlier this week that Griezmann was in advanced talks with Orlando City, but the MLS side are keen for him to join before the March 26 transfer deadline in the United States. Reports in Spain suggest Griezmann is closer to leaving Atletico than staying at Atletico, and it has been pointed out that the 34-year-old did not imagine he would play as much, or as well, this season.
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Griezmann’s deal with Orlando City ‘95% complete’
The information from the Spanish capital is supported by a report from French newspaper L’Equipe. While Atletico Madrid and Diego Simeone are backing Griezmann to stay until the end of the season, French media are reporting that a move to the United States is “95 per cent complete”. It is unclear whether Atletico will charge Griezmann, who is contracted until 2027, but at least Simeone generally believes he has earned the right to determine his future.
Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images
Why it matters for Griezmann to leave now or in the summer
Confusingly, Griezmann could leave now rather than in the summer. Alonso El Inca of ASN told Cadena SER that if Griezmann doesn’t make a move now, he could miss out on the chance to become a franchise player, which would earn him up to €20 million. On the other hand, if he moves in the summer, there’s no guarantee an Orlando offer will be on the table, but it would almost certainly reduce his earning potential.
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Of course, if Griezmann leaves, it would be a significant loss for Atletico in the final third of the season – he has already contributed 12 goals to the team and has returned to form as one of Atletico’s best players in recent months.