French football star Antoine Griezmann is reportedly preparing for a move to Major League Soccer, with Orlando City set to become the next destination of his career. The experienced forward has reached a verbal agreement with the MLS club and is expected to join the team in July 2026.
The move would mark the end of Griezmann’s long and successful career in Spanish football, where he spent many years playing for Atlético Madrid, Barcelona and Real Sociedad.
Antoine Griezmann Transfer Overview
| Player | Antoine Griezmann |
|---|---|
| Current Club | Atlético Madrid |
| New Club | Orlando City |
| Transfer Type | Free Transfer |
| Expected Start | July 2026 |
| Contract | Two years with option for third year |
The deal is expected to be finalized once the European football season concludes. Orlando City has reportedly been pursuing the French forward for several weeks.
Journey to MLS Move
Griezmann was initially linked with Orlando earlier in the year, but he decided to delay the transfer in order to finish the season with Atlético Madrid.
The veteran forward chose to remain with his current club for the remainder of the campaign as Atlético continues competing in multiple competitions.
These include the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and the Copa del Rey final.
Career in Spanish Football
| Club | Years Played |
|---|---|
| Real Sociedad | Early professional career |
| Atlético Madrid | Major part of career |
| Barcelona | 2019–2021 |
| Atlético Madrid (return) | Later career years |
Griezmann has spent his entire club career in Spain. Across his time with these teams, he has made hundreds of appearances and established himself as one of the most consistent forwards of his generation.
Career Statistics
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Club Appearances | 792 |
| Club Goals | 298 |
| France National Team Goals | 44 |
| International Assists | 30 |
Griezmann also enjoyed a successful international career with France before retiring from international football in 2024.
He was part of the French squad that won the 2018 FIFA World Cup and remained one of the team’s key attacking players for many years.
Also see: Man Utd in Advanced Talks for Bruno Guimarães Transfer but Real Madrid Join Race
Atlético Madrid Legacy
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Club Record | Atlético Madrid all-time leading scorer |
| Total Goals | 210 goals for the club |
| Key Role | Long-time attacking leader |
During his time at Atlético Madrid, Griezmann became the club’s all-time leading scorer. His goals and leadership made him one of the most important players in the team’s modern history.
Despite his individual success, the team has continued chasing major titles during his tenure under coach Diego Simeone.
Final Months with Atlético
Griezmann is expected to remain with Atlético Madrid until the end of the current season before completing the move to Orlando City.
The club still has important matches ahead, including major domestic and European competitions.
Atlético will face Barcelona in the Champions League quarterfinals and Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final.
Also see: Joan García Injury Update: Barcelona Goalkeeper Out 2–3 Weeks After Newcastle Match
MLS Move Marks New Chapter
| League | Major League Soccer |
|---|---|
| Team | Orlando City SC |
| Jersey Number | Expected No. 7 |
| Transfer Window | MLS summer window |
Major League Soccer’s summer transfer window opens in July, which aligns with Griezmann’s expected arrival in Orlando.
The move will bring one of Europe’s most recognizable football stars to the league, instantly raising Orlando City’s profile.
Next Stage of Griezmann’s Career
At 35 years old, Griezmann is preparing for what could be the final chapter of his professional playing career.
The MLS move represents a new challenge after more than a decade competing at the highest level in Spanish football.
Once the European season ends, the French forward is expected to officially join Orlando City and begin his next journey in American soccer.
