In recent weeks, intense speculation has surrounded the future of Antoine Griezmann at Atletico Madrid. Orlando City have been making a strong push to sign him immediately for the start of the new MLS season, a move that would leave Diego Simeone short of an attacker for the remainder of the European campaign.
Atleti are keen to keep Griezmann at least until the summer, with Simeone and sporting director Mateu Alemany working behind the scenes to persuade the former France international to remain at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
Simeone persuading Griezmann to reject MLS switch
The 34-year-old previously turned down a move to MLS in 2025, and a similar outcome now appears likely. Pablo Pinto has told Cadena SER that Griezmann is increasingly inclined to stay with Atleti through to the end of the season.
“Right now, he is closer to staying. Orlando are still pushing and insisting it must happen now, saying they won’t wait until summer. If he does remain, which currently seems more likely than leaving, it will be entirely because of Cholo (Simeone). Over the past few days, he has done very important work convincing him. He has practically got inside Antoine’s head, telling him that he cannot leave at this moment. He has planted that doubt within him.”
Atleti currently have several competitions to focus on, with opportunities still alive in both the Champions League and the Copa del Rey. While Griezmann is unlikely to lift the La Liga title again, staying on could give him a realistic chance of finishing his second spell with Los Colchoneros by winning silverware.
Griezmann’s future will become clearer over the coming weeks. Orlando City continue their pursuit, but for now, Atleti remain in control of his situation.
