News Focus
- Antoine Griezmann played his final home match for Atletico Madrid against Girona on Sunday.
- The 35-year-old will join Orlando City in the MLS when the summer transfer window opens.
- He apologised to supporters for his controversial move to Barcelona in 2019, calling it a mistake.
- Griezmann is the club’s all-time leading goalscorer after two spells totalling ten years.
- He provided an assist for Ademola Lookman in the 1-0 victory over Girona.
Antoine Griezmann has said an emotional goodbye to Atletico Madrid supporters. The French forward played his last match at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday.
The 35-year-old helped his team secure a 1-0 win against Girona. He created the winning goal for Ademola Lookman. This was his final appearance at the stadium before he moves to Orlando City in America.
After the match, Griezmann spoke directly to the fans. He said sorry for leaving the club to join Barcelona in 2019. He admitted this decision was an error.
“I was very young,” he told the crowd. “I did not understand how much love I had here. It was a mistake to go to Barcelona. I am sorry.”
The striker also thanked manager Diego Simeone. He said Simeone helped him win the World Cup and feel like the best player in the world. He also praised club captain Koke, calling him a true legend. Griezmann thanked his wife and parents for their support during difficult times.
Griezmann is Atletico’s record goalscorer. He first joined the club in 2014 and returned in 2021 after his time at Barcelona. His move to the MLS will end his career in European football.