Antoine Griezmann made his long-awaited arrival in Major League Soccer official on Tuesday, joining Orlando City and calling it the realization of a dream he has carried since his teenage years.
The 35-year-old former France forward signed with the club through 2028, coming off a historic run at Atletico Madrid where he finished as the club’s all-time leading scorer. Griezmann said timing was everything in his decision, wanting to make the leap while he still had plenty left in the tank.
“Since I was 18, it was my dream to come to MLS,” Griezmann told reporters at his official introduction with the team. “It was very important for me to arrive in good physical and mental condition, and that’s why I took this step.”
Griezmann also expressed how quickly he fell in love with the city and how his family embraced the change. “I connected very well with the club, I loved the city and my children are delighted,” he said. “It has been incredible and unexpected for my family and me, and hopefully we can give that affection back.”
A personal touch from Orlando sporting director Ricardo Moreira played a key role in sealing the deal. Griezmann said Moreira’s trip to visit him at his home in Madrid “touched my heart” and helped make Orlando the clear choice.
The World Cup champion said he was pleasantly surprised by the quality of his new teammates after his first training sessions and made clear he arrived with championship ambitions. “I haven’t noticed much difference between the level here and in Europe,” he said. “I’m here to win trophies, build a connection with the fans and help my teammates grow, both professionally and personally.”
One of the most anticipated moments of Griezmann’s MLS tenure will be the Florida derby against Inter Miami, where he will once again go head-to-head with Lionel Messi. The two spent two seasons as teammates at Barcelona after years as fierce rivals in Spain. Griezmann said he has already been hearing plenty about the matchup. “They’ve told me a lot about the derby. I watched the last one. It’ll be a joy to face Messi again, and also Rodrigo (De Paul), who I have a very good relationship with,” he said, referencing his former Atletico Madrid teammate.
