Griezmann says Orlando move fulfills MLS dream as Messi reunion awaits

Antoine Griezmann announced on Tuesday that he has joined Major League Soccer club Orlando City, fulfilling a lifelong ambition to play in the United States. The former French international, who left Atletico Madrid as the club's all-time leading scorer, stated that he had dreamed of playing in MLS since he was 18.

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Since I was 18, it was my dream to come to MLS. It was very important for me to arrive in good physical and mental condition, and that's why I took this step.

"Since I was 18, it was my dream to come to MLS," Griezmann told reporters during his presentation. "It was very important for me to arrive in good physical and mental condition, and that's why I took this step." The 35-year-old emphasized his desire to join while he still felt capable of performing at his peak.

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I connected very well with the club, I loved the city and my children are delighted. It has been incredible and unexpected for my family and me, and hopefully we can give that affection back.

Griezmann also expressed excitement about reuniting with Lionel Messi, whom he will face in the Florida derby between Orlando City and Inter Miami. Having played alongside Messi at Barcelona after years as rivals at Atletico Madrid, Griezmann anticipates the matchups with joy. "They've told me a lot about the derby," he said. "I watched the last one. It'll be a joy to face Messi again, and also Rodrigo (De Paul), who I have a very good relationship with."

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I haven't noticed much difference between the level here and in Europe.

He connected well with Orlando City, citing the club's appeal and his children's delight with the city as factors in his decision. Griezmann was particularly moved by a visit from Orlando's sporting director, Ricardo Moreira, to his home in Madrid. During his initial training sessions, Griezmann was impressed by the standard of his new teammates, stating, "I haven't noticed much difference between the level here and in Europe." He aims to win trophies, build a strong connection with the fans, and help his teammates develop both professionally and personally.

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They've told me a lot about the derby. I watched the last one. It'll be a joy to face Messi again, and also Rodrigo (De Paul), who I have a very good relationship with.