The football world is preparing for a poignant farewell as Antoine Griezmann prepares for his final appearances in Spain. The French forward, a cornerstone of Atlético Madrid’s modern era, is set to embark on a new adventure in the United States, making his upcoming fixtures—including a return to the Camp Nou—a definitive “last dance” on European soil.
The transition marks the end of a glittering career in Europe’s elite leagues. Griezmann, who recently turned 35, has officially signed with Orlando City SC, bringing a wealth of experience and a decorated trophy cabinet to Major League Soccer (MLS). For fans in Madrid and Barcelona, the remaining matches of the season are no longer just about league standings, but about honoring one of the most versatile attackers of his generation.
The move to Florida represents more than just a professional shift; it is the fulfillment of a long-held ambition. Griezmann has frequently signaled his desire to play in the U.S., driven by a deep affinity for American sports culture, including his documented passion for the NFL and the NBA. As he prepares to leave the Spanish game, he does so as Atlético Madrid’s record scorer, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history.
The Road to Orlando: A Landmark Transfer
On March 24, 2026, Orlando City SC announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann to a Designated Player contract via ESPN. The agreement is a two-year deal that runs through the 2027-28 season, with an additional club option for the 2028-29 campaign. This signing is viewed by club ownership as a statement of intent, with Owner & Chairman Mark Wilf describing the arrival of the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner as a “landmark moment” for the club and the city of Orlando.
The logistics of the transfer are timed for the summer. Griezmann will complete his current obligations with Atlético Madrid and is scheduled to join the “Lions” when the MLS secondary transfer window opens on July 13, 2026. The finalization of the move remains contingent on standard procedures, including a medical examination and the receipt of his P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate.
For Griezmann, the attraction to Orlando was rooted in the club’s vision. In an official statement, the forward noted that from his first conversations with the organization, he could feel a “strong ambition and a clear vision for the future.” He expressed excitement about making Orlando his new home and bringing his energy to the Inter&Co Stadium.
A Legacy of Excellence in Spain
Returning to the Camp Nou for a final encounter carries significant weight, given Griezmann’s complex and storied relationship with FC Barcelona. Having spent two seasons at the Catalan club playing alongside Lionel Messi, Griezmann’s return is a full-circle moment. His tenure at Barcelona included winning the 2020-21 Copa del Rey, adding to a career that has seen him compete at the highest levels of the sport.
However, it is at Atlético Madrid where Griezmann truly cemented his legend status. He departs as the club’s all-time leading scorer, having amassed 211 goals from 488 games for the Madrid side. His contributions were pivotal in securing several major honors, including the 2017-18 UEFA Europa League, the 2018 UEFA Super Cup, and the 2014 Spanish Supercopa.
Across his professional journey—which includes stints at Real Sociedad, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid—Griezmann has recorded 298 goals and 132 assists in 792 appearances. His individual brilliance was recognized globally when he finished third in the Ballon d’Or voting in both 2016 and 2018, marking him as one of the premier players in the world during those periods.
Career Statistics and Achievements
| Category | Detail/Statistic |
|---|---|
| Total Professional Appearances | 792 |
| Total Career Goals | 298 |
| Total Career Assists | 132 |
| Atlético Madrid Record | 211 goals in 488 games |
| Major Team Honors | 2018 FIFA World Cup, 2017-18 UEFA Europa League |
The American Dream: Beyond the Pitch
While the move to MLS is a professional transition, it is too a personal one. Griezmann’s interest in the United States predates his transfer offer. He has spent years immersing himself in American culture, frequently vacationing in the U.S. And attending professional sporting events. His passion for American football is particularly notable; he is a self-described fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
This enthusiasm extended into content creation, as Griezmann hosted his own podcast analyzing NFL games during the 2023 season. His connection to the sport was further highlighted in November 2025, when he appeared in the official broadcast of the first NFL game played in Spain—a matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the Washington Commanders at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.
This cultural alignment makes his move to Orlando City a natural fit. By joining the league as a Designated Player, Griezmann not only brings his technical skill—characterized by General Manager Ricardo Moreira as “creative, intelligent, and clinical”—but also a leadership quality and a “championship mentality” intended to elevate the rest of the roster.
What Happens Next
The immediate focus for Griezmann remains his commitment to Atlético Madrid. He will finish the current season in Spain, providing a final stretch of leadership and goal-scoring for the club that defines his career. This includes the highly anticipated return to the Camp Nou, where he will face his former teammates in a symbolic farewell to the Spanish game.
Following the conclusion of the season, the next official checkpoint will be the opening of the MLS summer transfer window on July 13, 2026, at which point Griezmann is expected to officially join the Orlando City SC squad, pending the completion of his medical and visa requirements.
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