Antoine Griezmann said on Tuesday he has fulfilled a lifelong ambition by joining Major League Soccer club Orlando City, with the former France forward looking to renew his rivalry with Lionel Messi after years facing the Argentina captain in Spain.
The 35-year-old joined Orlando on a contract until 2028 after leaving Atletico Madrid as the club’s all-time top scorer. He said he had dreamed of playing in the MLS since he was 18 and wanted to arrive while still feeling physically and mentally capable of performing at his best.
“Since I was 18, it was my dream to come to MLS,” Griezmann told reporters during his presentation with the team. “It was very important for me to arrive in good physical and mental condition, and that is why I took this step.”
«I had a very good relationship with the club, I loved the city and my children are very happy with it. It was incredible and unexpected for my family and me, and hopefully we can return that affection.»
Griezmann said sporting director Ricardo Moreira’s visit to his home in Madrid before the transfer «touched my heart» and convinced him Orlando was the right destination.
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The World Cup winner added that he was impressed by the level of his new teammates during his first training sessions and hoped his experience could help Orlando compete for trophies.
“I haven’t noticed much difference between the level here and in Europe,” he said. “I’m here to win trophies, bond with the fans and help my teammates grow, both professionally and personally.”
Griezmann is also looking forward to meeting Messi again in the Florida derby against Inter Miami. The Frenchman spent two seasons alongside the Argentine at Barcelona after years of playing as a rival for Atletico.
«They told me a lot about the derby,» Griezmann said. «I have seen the last one. It will be a pleasure to meet Messi again, and also Rodrigo (De Paul), with whom I have a very good relationship,» he added of his former Atletico teammate.
Published on July 8, 2026
