Antoine Griezmann is set to begin a new chapter in his illustrious career after Atlético Madrid confirmed that the French forward has agreed to join Major League Soccer side Orlando City at the end of the 2025/26 season. The move signals the closing stages of one of the most remarkable European careers of the modern era while showing the growing pull of MLS for global stars.
The announcement came shortly after Atlético Madrid’s dramatic derby defeat to Real Madrid, with the Spanish club granting permission for Antoine Griezmann to travel to the United States to finalize the details of a deal reportedly running until 2029. The transfer will be completed as a free move in the upcoming summer window, allowing Orlando City to secure one of the most decorated forwards of his generation.
Antoine Griezmann MLS move marks end of iconic Atlético era
For Atlético Madrid supporters, the departure of Antoine Griezmann represents the end of an extraordinary period. Since joining from Real Sociedad in 2014, the Frenchman has etched his name permanently into the club’s history books, becoming Atlético’s all-time leading goalscorer with 211 goals. His influence has extended beyond statistics, with his leadership, creativity and relentless work rate shaping the identity of Diego Simeone’s side for over a decade.
Across 488 appearances, Antoine Griezmann delivered countless decisive moments in both domestic and European competitions. His trophy haul with Atlético includes the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Super Cup in 2018, as well as the Spanish Super Cup earlier in his tenure. These achievements cemented his reputation as one of La Liga’s defining players of the modern era.
Atlético’s official statement emphasized gratitude for his contributions, describing him as a figure who provided “unforgettable moments” for the club’s global fanbase. Despite agreeing to move, Antoine Griezmann will remain available for Atlético during the season’s decisive run-in, including the Copa del Rey final and the Champions League quarter-finals.
Orlando City secure statement signing as MLS ambitions grow
The acquisition of Antoine Griezmann is a major statement of intent from Orlando City, who are seeking to elevate their status within Major League Soccer. The club’s early struggles this season have displayed the need for experienced leadership and attacking quality, and the Frenchman’s arrival is expected to transform both the team’s performance and global profile.
In his first comments following the agreement, Antoine Griezmann expressed enthusiasm about the project in Florida. He noted that discussions with Orlando City revealed “strong ambition and a clear vision,” factors that played a key role in his decision to move across the Atlantic.
For MLS, the signing of Antoine Griezmann strengthens the league’s increasing attractiveness to elite European talent. The move follows a broader trend of high-profile players choosing North America as the next destination in their careers, driven by competitive growth, commercial expansion and improved sporting infrastructure.
Antoine Griezmann career legacy extends beyond club football
Beyond his club achievements, Antoine Griezmann enjoyed a stellar international career with France, scoring 44 goals and providing 38 assists in 137 appearances. His contributions were instrumental in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup triumph, while he also helped secure the UEFA Nations League title in 2021.
Although he has since retired from international football, the influence of Antoine Griezmann on the global game remains undeniable. His technical intelligence, tactical versatility and ability to deliver on the biggest stages have placed him among the defining forwards of his generation.
What the transfer means for Atlético Madrid’s future
The departure of Antoine Griezmann presents Atlético Madrid with a significant transitional challenge. As the club navigates the final stages of the current campaign, attention will inevitably turn to succession planning and squad evolution. Replacing a player of his caliber will require both strategic recruitment and tactical adaptation.
For Orlando City, however, the signing of Antoine Griezmann represents a transformative opportunity. His presence is expected to boost ticket sales, commercial partnerships and on-field competitiveness, potentially reshaping the club’s trajectory in MLS.
With the summer transfer window approaching, the football world will closely monitor how this high-profile move unfolds. Whether viewed as the conclusion of a European legacy or the beginning of a new American adventure, Antoine Griezmann continues to command global attention as he prepares for the next phase of his storied career.
