Next week, Antoine Griezmann will meet the management of Atlético Madrid to talk about his future. While his contract expired in June 2026, the Frenchman has an option for an additional year. The Colchoneros, eager to keep it, must nevertheless convince.
In 2021, “Grizou” had accepted a drastic wage drop to return to Madrid. This time, a new reduction could complicate negotiations. The player, always essential for Diego Simeone (3,020 minutes played this season), requires an ambitious sports project and financial guarantees.
Simeone and Griezmann: an alchemy found
“There are different players, and he is one”repeats Diego Simeone, who made the striker his key man. A return to grace, after his complicated loan from Barcelona, where he was relegated to the bench to avoid the trigger of a purchase clause. Today, Griezmann lives one of his best seasons, despite elimination in the Champions League and a winter end of winter. Its versatility and leadership make it a pillar, even at 33 years old.
Can Griezmann still return to blue?
MLS or loyalty: the American dilemma
Los Angeles, supported by Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud, hopes to attract Griezmann in 2024. The player has always planned to end his career in MLS, preferring the United States to Saudi Arabia. But his attachment to Madrid, where his family is fulfilled, and his desire to win a major title with Atlético could delay the departure. In eight seasons, the Frenchman has only raised three minor trophies (Europa 2018 League, Super Cups in Europe and Spain). A frustration that could push him to stay.
Sports ambitions and family balance
In addition to wage issues, Griezmann assesses Atlético's ability to compete in the Liga and in the King's Cup. Failure in the Champions League and the lack of title this season could influence its decision. If the Madrid club presents a convincing project, an extension of one year is plausible. Otherwise, the MLS would become a credible option. Miguel Angel Gil, the CEO, will have to juggle between budgetary constraints and sports expectations to retain his number 7.
