Orlando City Presents Antoine Griezmann

Major League Soccer club Orlando City has officially welcomed Antoine Griezmann, the French football star, with a ceremony introducing him as the team's newest acquisition. Griezmann, 35, expressed his eagerness to embark on a new chapter in his career, stating his readiness to "discover the United States" and immerse himself in the experience.

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Today begins a new stage to discover the United States, to feel it, live it and enjoy it playing. A new chapter opens in Florida with Orlando City: a new challenge, a new team and the desire to continue chasing my dream with you, because football is a team sport. Now it's our turn to write the next chapter together. Vamos Orlando.

"Today begins a new stage to discover the United States, to feel it, live it and enjoy it playing. A new chapter opens in Florida with Orlando City: a new challenge, a new team and the desire to continue chasing my dream with you, because football is a team sport. Now it's our turn to write the next chapter together. Vamos Orlando," Griezmann declared in a video message.

The signing was reportedly orchestrated after Orlando City's sporting director, Ricardo Moreira, visited Griezmann in Madrid. Moreira's detailed presentation of the team, club, and fanbase convinced the French forward. Griezmann, who announced his transfer in March, joined the team last week after concluding his season with Atlético de Madrid.

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It was incredible, he had it so well worked out, so well studied that we left the meeting and I already knew everything about the team, the club, the fans.

He has long harbored a dream of playing in MLS and enjoyed his previous visits to the city with his family. Griezmann will wear his signature number '7' jersey and will play alongside Argentine midfielder Martín Ojeda. Moreira noted that Griezmann's experience, training habits, and hunger for trophies are expected to significantly benefit the team both on and off the field.

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We wanted someone who could connect all the dots for us, both on and off the field (...) We are bringing in someone who will help us in the locker room with his training habits, his experience, his hunger for trophies and his passion for football.

Griezmann's arrival comes as Orlando City sits 12th in the Eastern Conference, outside of playoff contention. His presence is expected to elevate the team's performance and enhance the rivalry with fellow Florida club Inter Miami, where Lionel Messi plays. "It will be a joy to face Leo (Messi) and Rodrigo (De Paul) again," Griezmann remarked.

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It will be a joy to face Leo (Messi) and Rodrigo (De Paul) again.