Griezmann: MLS has grown a lot since Messi's arrival

French attacker Antoine Griezmann believes Major League Soccer (MLS) has experienced substantial growth since Lionel Messi joined the league, attracting numerous other world-class players. Griezmann, a recent acquisition for Orlando City, noted that the passion for soccer in the United States has surged dramatically with Messi's presence.

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The passion of the American for football increased a lot since Messi is here.

"World-class players come here to compete and win, and that raises the level of the league," Griezmann stated at an MLS event in New York. "I come here to win, to give my maximum level to win trophies." He is eager to make his debut for Orlando City, which is scheduled for July 22 in an away match against the San Jose Earthquakes.

Griezmann, 35, has been training with his new teammates for two weeks and has enjoyed the experience in two friendly matches. He and his wife were drawn to the club's philosophy and the city, feeling it was the "perfect moment" for this career move. His contract with Orlando City extends through the end of the 2027-28 season.

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World-class players come here to compete and win, and that raises the level of the league. I come here to win, to give my maximum level to win trophies.

Orlando City signed Griezmann in March, but he only joined the Florida-based team in early July after concluding his season with Atlético de Madrid and taking his summer vacation. He retired from the French national team in September 2024 and did not participate in the recent World Cup. His arrival comes mid-season, with Orlando City currently outside the playoff positions.

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the perfect moment