Antoine Griezmann expressed that the love he has received from Atlético Madrid is “more valuable” than winning the Champions League or LaLiga. This sentiment came after he played his final home match for the club, which ended in a 1-0 victory against Girona. He also took the opportunity to apologize once more to fans for his time at Barcelona.
Atlético Madrid honored Griezmann in a ceremony on the field following the match at Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday. The forward is set to join Orlando City in MLS this summer.
As Atlético’s all-time leading goalscorer and the fourth-highest in appearances, Griezmann has celebrated victories with the club in the Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and Spanish Supercopa, although he has yet to secure a Champions League or LaLiga title.
Griezmann initially joined Atlético in 2014 and was a standout player until moving to Barcelona in 2019, later returning to Atlético in 2021.
“Thank you all for your unwavering support. This is incredible,” Griezmann said in a heartfelt address to the fans, following tributes from teammates, coach Diego Simeone, and esteemed club legends like Fernando Torres and Diego Godín.
“This is significant for me. I know some of you have forgiven me, and others are still working on it, but I sincerely apologize once again for my time at Barcelona. I didn’t fully appreciate the love here when I was younger and I made a mistake. Upon returning, I truly realized how special it is to be here, and we did everything possible to enjoy it together again.”
Griezmann praised Simeone, who previously referred to him as “possibly the best player we’ve had here.” He stated, “Thanks to you [Simeone], the atmosphere in this stadium is electric. You helped me become a world champion and feel like the best. I owe you so much, and it’s been a privilege to fight for you.”
“Though I haven’t been able to secure a LaLiga title or a Champions League trophy, the love I’ve received here surpasses everything else,” Griezmann reflected. “I will carry this love with me for the rest of my life.”
Griezmann ranked third in the Men’s Ballon d’Or standings in 2016, when Atlético fell short in the Champions League final, and in 2018, the year he won the World Cup with France.
“He should be a Ballon d’Or winner,” said goalkeeper Jan Oblak. ‘He has plenty of years ahead of him in the U.S., where fans will truly appreciate him.’