Full Breakdown
Antoine Griezmann Bids Emotional Farewell to Atlético Madrid
5/18/2026, 11:01:04 PM
Farewell Match and Ceremony
On 17 May 2026 Atlético Madrid hosted Girona in the club’s final home game of the 2025-26 LaLiga season. Antoine Griezmann, already set to join MLS side Orlando City, supplied the decisive pass to Ademola Lookman for the only goal of a 1-0 win. After the final whistle the Metropolitano staged a 30-minute tribute, with teammates, coach Diego Simeone and former players Fernando Torres and Diego Godín presenting Griezmann a guard of honour.
Milestones and Numbers
Griezmann left Atlético as its all-time top scorer with 212 goals in 500 matches, and recorded his 100th assist in the farewell game. He arrived from Real Sociedad in 2014 for €54 million, returned after a €120 million spell at Barcelona, and added two Europa League titles, a UEFA Super Cup and two Spanish Super Cups. He placed third in the Ballon d’Or in 2016 and 2018, but never won LaLiga or the Champions League with the club.
Path to MLS
After rising through the French youth system and debuting at Real Sociedad, Griezmann’s €54 million move to Atlético in 2014 launched a decade-long spell in Spain. A controversial €120 million transfer to Barcelona in 2019 alienated some Atlético supporters, prompting his return on loan in 2021 and a permanent €22 million deal in 2022. In early 2026 he confirmed a free-transfer to Orlando City, marking the end of his European career.
Official Statements & Responses
Griezmann thanked the supporters, reiterated his apology for the 2019 Barcelona move and said the affection he felt at Atlético outweighed any trophy, adding that he would carry the fans’ love for the rest of his life. Coach Diego Simeone praised Griezmann’s contribution, calling him one of the best players in the club’s history. Teammates Koke, Fernando Torres and Diego Godín each highlighted his humility, dedication and the lasting bond with the Atlético family.
Criticism from Fans
Many supporters felt betrayed by Griezmann’s 2019 switch to Barcelona, a sentiment that forced him to apologise during the farewell ceremony. The criticism focused on the perception that he abandoned Atlético for a higher-profile club, a view that softened after his 2021 return.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I haven’t been able to bring home a La Liga title or a Champions League trophy.” — Antoine Griezmann, Forward, Atlético Madrid
- “But this means so much more to me tonight; I’ll carry your love with me for the rest of my life.” — Antoine Griezmann, Forward, Atlético Madrid
- “Thank you all for staying behind. This is amazing,” — Antoine Griezmann, Forward, Atlético Madrid
- “He should have won a Ballon d'Or.” — Jan Oblak, Goalkeeper, Atlético Madrid
- “Speaking to reporters, he declared: "I am happy to have been able to enjoy these years with him.” — Jan Oblak, Goalkeeper, Atlético Madrid
- “possibly the best player we've had here.” — Diego Simeon, Coach, Atlético Madrid
Impact
Griezmann’s farewell underscores the primacy of fan connection over silverware in modern football, illustrating how personal loyalty can shape a player’s legacy. His move to MLS also highlights the growing appeal of the North American league for established European stars.
Future Outlook
Atlético will travel to Villarreal for the final match of the season, while Griezmann prepares for preseason with Orlando City ahead of the 2026 MLS campaign.
