Orlando City SC is on the verge of securing one of the biggest signings in Major League Soccer history. Atlético Madrid star Antoine Griezmann is traveling to Florida to finalize a deal with the club, bringing an end to weeks of speculation and setting the stage for a significant shift in the MLS landscape. The move, first reported by Marca, has been confirmed by multiple sources, including The Athletic and Sports Illustrated.
The 35-year-aged French forward, who celebrated his birthday on Saturday, is expected to join Orlando City this summer, with a contract extending through the 2027-28 MLS season – the first full season operating on a calendar aligned with European leagues – and an option for 2028-29. Griezmann, Atlético Madrid’s all-time leading scorer with over 211 goals, will inherit the No. 7 shirt, according to sources. This transfer marks a significant moment for MLS, attracting a World Cup winner and established global superstar.
Griezmann’s Long-Awaited MLS Arrival
Griezmann has openly expressed his desire to play in MLS in the past, citing an affinity for American sports and culture and frequently vacationing in the United States, often attending NBA games. While Atlético Madrid initially blocked a mid-season departure during the recent MLS transfer window which closed on March 26th, the club has now authorized Griezmann to travel to Orlando to complete the agreement. beIN SPORTS reports that this trip signifies the beginning of Griezmann’s farewell to Atlético Madrid.
Orlando City holds “discovery rights” to Griezmann, a mechanism within MLS that grants a team priority in signing a player. The club has been actively pursuing Griezmann for several weeks, and the deal is now nearing completion. He has recorded 13 goals this season for Atlético Madrid, despite not being an undisputed starter, demonstrating his continued goal-scoring prowess.
Impact on Orlando City and MLS
Griezmann’s arrival is expected to be central to a rebuild for Orlando City, which recently parted ways with longtime coach Óscar Pareja after a disappointing start to the season. Currently 13th in the Eastern Conference with only one win in five games, the club is looking for a major boost. Griezmann’s signing would represent the most significant global star to join Orlando City since Kaká, the Ballon d’Or winner who played for the club from 2014 to 2017.
The potential debut date for Griezmann is projected to be July 22 against the San Jose Earthquakes, following the opening of the MLS secondary transfer window on July 13. However, a regular-season match against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami is not currently scheduled. ESPN reports the deal is a two-year contract with an additional one-year option.
Griezmann’s career includes a 2018 World Cup title with France, as well as a Europa League title, a Supercopa, and a UEFA Super Cup with Atlético Madrid. He was also a Champions League runner-up in the 2015-16 season. He has amassed 137 appearances for the French national team, scoring 44 goals before retiring from international play in 2024.
Before fully transitioning to MLS, Griezmann has crucial matches remaining with Atlético Madrid, including the Copa del Rey final on April 18 against Real Sociedad, his former club, and Champions League quarterfinal matches against FC Barcelona on April 8 and 15.
The move signals a continued trend of high-profile European players choosing to play in MLS, further elevating the league’s profile and competitiveness. As Griezmann prepares to embark on this new chapter, the focus shifts to his impact on Orlando City and the broader MLS landscape.
What remains to be seen is how Griezmann will adapt to the MLS style of play and how his presence will influence the performance of Orlando City. The coming months will be crucial as he prepares for his move and the club anticipates his arrival. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
