French footballing icon Antoine Griezmann is prepared to trade the intensity of Madrid for the sunshine of Florida, having officially committed to a future in Major League Soccer (MLS). The 34-year-old Atlético Madrid talisman has reportedly reached a definitive agreement to join Orlando City, marking a significant transition for one of the most decorated attackers of his generation. According to reports from Marca, corroborated by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the World Cup winner will conclude his storied tenure at the Metropolitano before migrating to the United States as a free agent this summer.
The negotiations for the France international’s services have been a saga of persistence for the MLS outfit. While Orlando City had initially attempted to secure Griezmann’s signature during the March primary transfer window, those overtures were rebuffed as Atlético sought to retain their star for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign. However, the persistence of the American side has finally yielded a verbal pact that aligns with the expiration of Griezmann’s current contractual obligations in Spain.
Detailing the specifics of the high-profile move, Fabrizio Romano shared via X (formerly Twitter):
“Agreement on deal for July 2026, free transfer from Atlético. After deal for March rejected, agreement done for summer. Griezmann will travel this week to USA.”
The timing of the announcement adds a bittersweet layer to Griezmann’s final months in a red-and-white shirt. The veteran forward was a key figure in Diego Simeone’s starting lineup during Sunday night’s high-stakes Madrid derby, a match that ultimately ended in a heartbreaking 3–2 defeat to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. Despite the looming transition to North America, Griezmann remains a foundational element of the Rojiblancos as they navigate the closing stages of the La Liga season and their pursuit of European honors.
Griezmann’s impending departure signifies the end of an era for Atlético Madrid, where he has become the club’s all-time leading goalscorer across two separate spells. For Orlando City, the acquisition represents a massive commercial and competitive coup, bringing a “world-class” creative force to a league that continues to attract elite European talent. The Frenchman is expected to utilize the upcoming international break to travel to the United States and finalize the logistical details of his relocation, ensuring he is ready to hit the ground running when he officially joins the “Lions” in July.
About the Author
