Antoine Griezmann in Talks with Orlando City for Potential Move The 2018 World Champion may be crossing the Atlantic. Antoine Griezmann is currently in discussions with Orlando City, the club that holds his “discovery rights”, a mechanism unique to the MLS that gives them negotiation priority, according to a source close to the matter interviewed by AFP, confirming information from The Athletic. “Discussions are taking place, but nothing is final yet,” said a close associate of the player. Still committed to Atletico Madrid, the French forward remains focused on “exciting opportunities” in the midst of the European season.
At 34 years old, Griezmann continues to be a key figure for the Colchoneros, where he is the all-time leading scorer with 210 goals. Regularly linked with a move to the United States in recent years, the former vice-captain of the French national team has never hidden his attraction to North American sports, particularly the NBA.
Contracted with Atletico until June 2027 after his extension last year, “Grizou” has scored 12 goals in 35 matches this season, despite not holding as undisputed a status as before. A true legend of the Madrid club, he played there from 2014 to 2019 before a stint at FC Barcelona, and then a permanent return in 2022. A key player in the 2018 Europa League victory, the forward, however, has never won a major title with Madrid, notably falling short in the 2016 Champions League final.
Meanwhile, Orlando City kicked off their 2026 MLS season with a loss to the New York Red Bulls (2-1). The North American league, which already features stars like Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min, and Hugo Lloris, hopes to capitalize on the exposure of the 2026 World Cup. Griezmann, who turns 35 in March, retired from international football in September 2024.
