In a stunning development for Major League Soccer, French football icon Antoine Griezmann is poised to join Orlando City this summer, departing from Atletico Madrid after a decade of service. The 35-year-old forward, who clinched the World Cup with France in 2018, is finalising a two-year contract with the MLS side, which includes an option for a third year, following approval from his current club to travel to Orlando for negotiations.
Record-Breaking Departure from Atletico Madrid
Griezmann will exit Atletico Madrid as their all-time leading goalscorer, having amassed an impressive 211 goals across 488 appearances over ten seasons. His prolific contributions have cemented his legacy at the Spanish club, where he has been a pivotal figure in both domestic and European competitions.
Commitment to Atletico Until Summer
Despite the impending move, Griezmann has vowed to dedicate himself fully to Atletico Madrid in the coming months. The club remains active in the Copa del Rey and Champions League, and the French star is determined to give his all in these crucial fixtures before making the transition to American soccer.
Orlando City's Landmark Acquisition
Mark Wilf, the owner of Orlando City, has hailed Griezmann's arrival as a transformative moment for the franchise and MLS as a whole. In a statement, Wilf expressed excitement about the impact the World Cup winner will have on the team's performance and the league's global profile, underscoring the significance of this high-profile transfer.
Boost for Major League Soccer
This move represents a major coup for MLS, attracting a player of Griezmann's calibre and international renown. It follows a trend of elite European stars joining the league in their later careers, potentially enhancing its competitiveness and appeal to fans worldwide. The deal is expected to be formalised in the coming weeks, with Griezmann set to begin his MLS journey in the 2026 season.
