Antoine Griezmann is set to join Major League Soccer's Orlando City at the end of the season, according to reports emerging from Spain. The French forward's move to the United States will commence following the conclusion of Atlético Madrid's current campaign, which could culminate in a Champions League final or end as early as Tuesday night against Arsenal.
Griezmann, Atlético's all-time record goalscorer, is in London with Diego Simeone's squad for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final, with the tie poised at 1-1. Should Atlético be eliminated at the Emirates Stadium, it would mark the 33-year-old's 120th and final appearance in the competition for the club. The player himself acknowledged the impending change in a pre-match press conference on Monday, though he focused on the immediate challenge.
"I'm not the type to wonder if it's my last or penultimate match, but to be mentally well, fresh in the head and in the legs," Griezmann said. "And I want to play it because I have a lot of desire and joy to give." His comments reflect a player at peace with his decision and determined to contribute in his final matches for the Colchoneros. He also noted a shift in his personal approach to big games, stating he now feels "calmer and more tranquil" compared to earlier in his career when he experienced significant pre-match stress.
The transfer brings to a close Griezmann's second spell at Atlético Madrid, a club where he has cemented his legendary status. After initially joining from Real Sociedad in 2014, he left for Barcelona in 2019 only to return to the Spanish capital two years later. His return was a resounding success, as he reclaimed his pivotal role and eventually surpassed Luis Aragones as the club's highest-ever scorer. His departure signals the end of a major era for Simeone's side, which will now have to plan for a future without its creative talisman.
For Orlando City, the acquisition represents a monumental coup and a statement of intent within MLS. The Florida-based club, which finished second in the Eastern Conference last season, will be adding a World Cup winner and one of the most decorated and recognizable attacking players of his generation. Griezmann's arrival follows a growing trend of elite European stars moving to North America in the latter stages of their careers, though he remains a highly effective performer at the top level.
The move makes strategic sense for both parties. Griezmann secures a new challenge in a growing league and a different lifestyle for his family, while Orlando gains a global superstar to lead its ambitions. For Atlético, while his exit leaves a significant void, it also frees up substantial wages and allows for a squad refresh under Simeone. The immediate focus, however, remains on the pitch at the Emirates, where Griezmann will aim to extend his Atlético farewell by securing a place in the Champions League final.
