Antoine Griezmann is a turning point in his career. If the option of a start to the MLS has trotted him in his head for a long time, his deep attachment to Atlético Madrid still pushes him to think. Between the attractive offers from across the Atlantic and the desire to end up in style with his heart club, the Frenchman wants to weigh every detail before deciding. But this expectation hides a much sharper strategy than it looks like.
Behind this reflection, Griezmann also plays a tactical part. According to several sources close to the club, the player took advantage of recent discussions with the leaders to talk about next season … and set up his conditions. Even if he is not too much in a position of strength to do it right now. It is not only a salary or duration of contract, but especially of ambition. The Mâconnais wants to be fixed on the means set up to really compete with Real and Barça. A hollow way of putting pressure on its leaders.
What if Griezmann used MLS to put pressure on Atlético?
Griezmann is lucid: at 34, he can no longer carry the Colchonero project alone. This is why he wants guarantees on summer recruitment, with weight reinforcements to raise the overall level of the workforce. This speech, relayed according to our information during his dinner with a member of the Management, marks a break. The Frenchman does not only want to extend, he wants to be sure to remain competitive at the highest level.
Griezmann between two worlds
In parallel, Griezmann keeps the door ajar to the MLS. A concrete offer has been transmitted to him and the tempting North American challenge remains a real option. But the former Barcelona does not want to rush his decision. He gives himself time, while carefully observing the gestures of his leaders. And this balancingist game could last a few more weeks.
Stay at Atlético with an ambitious project or fly to the United States for a new adventure? Griezmann laid the foundations and holds the keys. The ball is now in the camp of the Madrid club, which will have to convince one of his greatest symbols that he can still dream of in red and white.
