Atletico Madrid has reached an agreement with LaLiga rivals Barcelona for the permanent transfer of Antoine Griezmann.
Since August 2021, France’s Griezmann has been on loan to Atletico. Still, recent appearances have been restricted to 30-minute cameos because of contractual obligations.
According to sources, the two-year loan agreement said that if the 31-year-old World Cup winner played more than 45 minutes in more than 50% of games, Atletico would have to pay Barcelona Ā£35m to make a move permanent.
Griezmann, who joined Barca from Atletico for Ā£108m in 2019, has agreed to a contract until June 2026 to complete his return to Civitas Metropolitano.
Official statement
“The transfer of Antoine Griezmann, who has been playing for Atletico de Madrid on loan from FC Barcelona since the summer of 2021, has been agreed upon,” according to a statement on the club’s website.
“The French striker also inked a contract to keep him affiliated with our team through June 30, 2026.”
Griezmann, who won the World Cup in 2018 and has scored 42 goals in 110 international matches, has recorded three goals and two assists in 11 club appearances this season.
We're thrilled to announce that Antoine Griezmann has signed a permanent contract until 2026! ā¤ļø? pic.twitter.com/H7B7Gsyreo
— AtlĆ©tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) October 10, 2022
Griezmann speaks about Simeone, permanent transfer and fans
After the move was made official, Griezmann, who has a four-year deal with Atletico until 2026, could not contain his joy and was overjoyed at the news.
“I’ll sacrifice everything for my team, the coach, the supporters, and Atletico. Give everything for the shield; I may blow opportunities or passes, but I’ll give it my all up to the very last second.”
Then he discussed the challenges he faced to regain his status as a permanent Rojiblanco. He stated that it had always been his goal to rejoin his old team.
“I’m overjoyed because that’s what I wanted from the start. Stay here, return to AtlĆ©tico, and take pleasure in this team, this management, the players, the supporters, and the stadium. I made every effort to remain here.”
“People go out of their way to purchase season tickets, travel, and watch us play. It is my homage to the supporters,” he continued.
“I spoke to the club when I realised I may potentially stay here for many years. I understood what they required of me. I didn’t give it much thought.”
“I didn’t give a damn about the effort I would put in. I only wanted to remain and have fun here. My family enjoys it. It’s a club where my teammates and coach adore me.”
Griezmann expressed his utmost appreciation for manager Diego Simeone in the following words: “I owe him a great deal; he is a legend.”
“I believe I have achieved my finest level because of him. Giving my all, fighting for him, and winning games satisfies me.”
