“Orlando City SC announced today it has signed global soccer icon and 2018 FIFA World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann from Atlético de Madrid of Spain’s LaLiga. The French attacker has signed a contract with the Club beginning July 2026 and extending through the 2027-28 season, with an option for 2028-29,” the club stated in its official release.

With Griezmann’s highly anticipated arrival, MLS continues to add international superstars to fuel its exponential growth. He will become the fifth active World Cup champion currently playing in the league, joining an elite group that includes Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, Thomas Muller, and Hugo Lloris.

Another World Cup Champion in Orlando

Griezmann will not be the first World Cup winner to wear the Lions’ jersey in the franchise’s history. That honor belongs to the legendary Kaka, who won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil.

Kaka was a cornerstone of Orlando City between 2015 and 2017, serving as the club’s first major superstar and a key figure in the explosive growth that MLS has experienced over the last decade. Griezmann’s arrival marks a full-circle moment for the Florida club, as they once again secure a global icon to lead their attack.

How many World Cup champions have played in MLS?

With the deal for Griezmann finalized, the French forward will become the 20th World Cup winner to play in the United States starting in July 2026. It is worth noting that this prestigious list could grow even longer following the 2026 World Cup, which is set to kick off on June 11 and conclude on July 19.

Griezmann joins the current active group of Messi, De Paul, Muller, and Lloris. Beyond these five stars, 15 other legends have lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy before bringing their talents to MLS:

• Branco (MetroStars 1997)
• Denilson (FC Dallas 2007)
• Lothar Matthaus (Metrostars 2000)
• Youri Djorkaeff (NYRB 2005-2006)
• Thierry Henry (NYRB 2010-2014)
• Kleberson (Philadelphia Union 2013)
• Alessandro Nesta (Montreal Impact (2012-2013)
• David Villa (NYCFC 2015-2018)
• Andrea Pirlo (NYCFC 2015-2017)
• Kaka (Orlando City 2015-2017)
• Bastian Schweinsteiger (Chicago Fire 2017-2019)
• Blaise Matuidi (Inter Miami 2020-2021)
• Thiago Almada (Atlanta United 2022-2024)
• Olivier Giroud (LAFC 2024-2025)
• Sergio Busquets (Inter Miami 2023-2025)

The rivalry between Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann has been one of the most consistent over the past decade, with a total of 34 head-to-head matchups across clubs and international play. They frequently faced each other in La Liga, with Messi at Barcelona and Griezmann representing Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad, as well as in matches between Argentina and France.

At club level, the two players have faced each other in 31 official matches, primarily in Spanish competitions such as La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa, as well as in the UEFA Champions League. At the international level, they have faced each other three times.

Club matchups

During those matchups, Lionel Messi has held a clear edge, recording 19 wins compared to five for Antoine Griezmann, along with seven draws. In terms of scoring efficiency, Messi has been particularly dominant, netting 26 goals against teams featuring the French forward, Real Sociedad and Atletico Madrid, while Griezmann has scored six goals in those direct matchups against Barcelona.

International matchups

At the international level, the story has been different, though equally significant overall. The record stands at one win for each side and one draw, which ended in the historic penalty shootout in 2022. In terms of goals in these matchups, Lionel Messi leads with two goals, both in the 2022 final, while Antoine Griezmann has one goal, scored in the Round of 16 at the 2018 World Cup.

These were results that made history. In 2018, France went on to be crowned champions, and arguably their toughest opponent was Argentina in the Round of 16, where Antoine Griezmann scored a penalty that opened the scoring in the victory.

In contrast, Argentina responded in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where Lionel Messi scored twice, one from the penalty spot to open the scoring and another in extra time to give them the lead. Griezmann was substituted in the first half of that match, where Kylian Mbappe emerged as the standout performer with a hat trick that forced a penalty shootout, where they ultimately became world champions.

What to expect in MLS

As mentioned, Antoine Griezmann is expected to arrive in MLS with Orlando City SC, where he will likely face Lionel Messi again. It will not be just another match; it will represent the Florida derby between Orlando City SC and Inter Miami, one of the most important fixtures for both teams, making it a matchup worth following when it takes place.

The 34-year-old French star had been linked with a possible move to Orlando City. However, according to Atletico Madrid sporting director Mateu Alemany, Griezmann will remain with the club for this season and for two additional years.

“Antoine Griezmann is in an extraordinary moment of form and considering that he is a legend and the level he is showing, he will be applauded as always. He is with us and he will continue with us,” Alemany said before Griezmann provided an assist in Atletico Madrid’s 3-2 victory against Real Sociedad in La Liga. Still, according to Fabrizio Romano, Orlando City remain in conversations for a possible free transfer in July, focusing on the summer window.

Griezmann, 34, is the all-time leading scorer in the history of Atletico Madrid. He helped France win the 2018 World Cup before retiring from international soccer in 2024. His career also includes memorable moments against Lionel Messi, especially in the 2018 World Cup when France defeated Argentina in the quarterfinals and in 2022 when Argentina defeated France in the final.

Griezmann’s current situation

This season, he has lost some of his leading role under coach Diego Simeone, as the manager has been managing his minutes carefully. Even so, Griezmann has scored 12 goals in all competitions during the current campaign.

Atletico Madrid will face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final on April 18. Atletico Madrid also sit third in La Liga and will face Tottenham in the round of 16 of the Champions League next week, a crucial moment in the season where the team will certainly need the French forward.

Simeone still wants Griezmann

After the 3-2 victory against Real Sociedad, Diego Simeone addressed the situation regarding Antoine Griezmann’s future, although he emphasized that he hopes the forward continues giving everything he can to the club.

“These things are always better when the player speaks directly and explains what he truly wants to say. We always want the best for him, first as a person and for his family, because I care about him a lot, and he will decide when the time comes to say something,” Simeone said during the postgame press conference. “Griezmann is different. When he is playing well, he is a very important player for us, and hopefully he continues giving everything he wants to this team.”

Griezmann is in advanced talks with Orlando City of MLS about finishing his career in Florida. According to Tom Bogert, the franchise’s sporting director and general manager, Ricardo Moreira traveled repeatedly to Madrid to negotiate and attempt to convince “El Principito” to complete an immediate transfer.

In addition, according to Cesar Luis Merlo, discussions are ongoing with Atletico Madrid to purchase his transfer rights and sign him to a three-year contract. The transfer window in the United States closes March 26, and Orlando City remain confident they can complete what would be a marquee signing.

The Florida club holds the player’s discovery rights, giving it priority in MLS. The French forward has never hidden his interest in American sports, publicly declaring himself a particular fan of the NFL and the NBA.

Another possible destination for Griezmann

Other MLS clubs have shown interest in the former Barcelona forward, who last season was linked with a possible move to Los Angeles FC, where his France teammate and friend Hugo Lloris currently plays. After several meetings with Atletico Madrid’s leadership, Griezmann chose to remain in Madrid and extend his contract, a move widely viewed as financial restructuring to spread his salary over additional years.

It appears unlikely that the France international, a World Cup champion with France, will leave Atletico Madrid in the middle of the season, although the offer could remain on the table in the summer. Atletico Madrid are still alive in Copa del Rey, where they moved closer to the final after a 4-0 first-leg win over Barcelona in the semifinals, and they are set to face Club Brugge in the Champions League in a decisive match for a place in the round of 16.

Messi and Griezmann rivalry

The rivalry between Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann has been marked by a clear statistical edge for the Argentine, particularly during their years in Spain, where they were also teammates in Barcelona. In direct club matchups, mainly Barcelona against Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad, Messi prevails in the majority of meetings. Before leaving Europe, Messi recorded 19 wins, 9 draws and 6 losses against teams featuring Griezmann.

At the international level, the balance was more even and delivered the most emotionally charged moments for both players. The most iconic clash came in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, when Argentina defeated France on penalties after a dramatic 3-3 draw, securing Messi’s first World Cup title.

However, Griezmann also experienced a moment of triumph against Messi, France’s 4-3 victory over Argentina in the round of 16 at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In that match, “Grizi” scored from the penalty spot and helped eliminate Argentina. Overall, combining club and international competitions, Messi leads the head-to-head record with 20 wins to Griezmann’s 7, and a potential move to MLS could renew that rivalry.

Griezmann is listed among the substitutes, while Julian Alvarez, Giuliano Simeone, are leading the attack in a rotated lineup. Simeone’s rotation strategy is common, balancing player workload across a demanding European and domestic schedule.

Despite not starting, Griezmann remains a key figure for Atletico. Known for his versatility and experience, he provides tactical depth and can be introduced later to shift the game’s momentum.

Why has Diego Simeone opted to rotate his lineup today?

The decision to bench Griezmann appears motivated by several factors: keeping the starting lineup fresh, experimenting with attacking combinations, and managing squad workload over the season. Rotating forwards allows Atletico to maintain high intensity without overtaxing key players.

Atletico confirmed lineup vs. Inter Milan

Atletico Madrid have confirmed their starting XI for today’s UEFA Champions League 2025/26 clash against Inter Milan. Head coach Diego Simeone has opted for a rotated lineup, leaving Antoine Griezmann on the bench in a tactical decision.

Starting XI: J. Musso; J. M. Gimenez (C), Ruggeri, Molina, Hancko; Gallagher, Johnny, Barrios; Alex Berenguer, Giuliano Simeone, Julián Alvarez.

The 2018 World Cup champion shared his picks during an interview with popular Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos, joined by his Atletico Madrid teammate Julian Alvarez. Griezmann revealed his top five all-time greats, placing a fellow Frenchman, Zinedine Zidane, at the top.

Griezmann was only seven years old when Zidane led France to their first-ever World Cup title in 1998, starring in the final with a memorable brace in a 3–0 win over Brazil — a team loaded with legends like Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, Cafu and Rivaldo.

What caught most people’s attention was that Griezmann named Lionel Messi second on his list but left Cristiano Ronaldo out entirely, despite having faced him numerous times throughout his career with Real Sociedad, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid.

Rounding out his top five behind Zidane were Diego Maradona in third, Johan Cruyff in fourth, and David Beckham in fifth — a ranking that surprised many for its omission of the Portuguese star.

Julian Alvarez’s picks

Argentina forward Julian Alvarez, who now shares the attack with Griezmann at Atletico Madrid, had no hesitation naming Lionel Messi as the greatest player of all time. His top five also included two other Argentine legends: Diego Maradona in second place and Alfredo Di Stefano in third.

Alvarez completed his list with Brazil’s 2002 World Cup champion Ronaldo Nazario and, unlike Griezmann, included Cristiano Ronaldo in fifth place to round out his top five.

Griezmann, once considered by many the best player on the French national team — and a deserving Ballon d’Or candidate in 2018 after leading Atlético Madrid to a Europa League title — was instrumental in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia. Many still view him as the standout performer of that tournament, especially in the final.

Now, France take the pitch without a natural playmaker like Griezmann or the long-absent Paul Pogba, who once served as his midfield counterpart. In the meantime, Les Bleus will rely on their world-class attacking options, including Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d’Or contender Ousmane Dembele.

Emerging talent Desire Doue is also expected to feature and could play a significant role off the bench. His presence adds another layer of intrigue to the matchup, especially as he goes up against Spain’s own teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal. With Spain’s youthful squad full of hunger and momentum, this semifinal promises to deliver fireworks.

Why isn’t Antoine Griezmann playing tonight?

Griezmann is not available for today’s clash against Spain because he was not included in the squad — a direct result of his international retirement in September 2024. His absence marks the end of a legendary chapter for French soccer.

During his international career, Griezmann won three major trophies with France: the UEFA European Under-19 Championship (2010), the FIFA World Cup (2018), and the UEFA Nations League (2020–21). He retires from international duty with 137 caps and 44 goals over a ten-year span — a legacy that will forever be etched in French soccer history.

This Saturday, Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 against Espanyol, with Antoine Griezmann playing the full match. With this game, he became the foreign player with the most La Liga appearances in history, totaling 521.

The French forward has spent his entire career in Spain. He began his career with Real Sociedad from 2009 to 2014, making 141 appearances. He then moved to Atletico Madrid, where he spent five years in his first stint. Between 2019 and 2021, Antoine played 74 league matches with Barcelona, before returning to Madrid, where this Saturday he reached 306 La Liga appearances.

In doing so, Griezmann broke the record previously held by Lionel Messi, who, after making his professional debut in 2004, played 520 matches in the Spanish league with Barcelona before his move to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2021.

Other Messi records in La Liga

Antoine Griezmann can take pride in surpassing Lionel Messi in La Liga appearances, but the Argentine forward still holds many records that will be difficult for any player to match, showcasing the immense impact he had during his years at Barcelona.

Messi is the all-time top scorer in La Liga, with 474 goals, leaving Cristiano Ronaldo in second place with 311. He is also the all-time leader in assists, with 193. Leo also holds the record for being the foreign player with the most titles in La Liga, winning a total of 10 over his 17 seasons.

Finally, the Argentine superstar accumulated other records, including the most hat-tricks (36), most goals in a single season (50), most assists in a single season (21), most consecutive matches scoring goals (21), and the most top scorer awards (8).

Griezmann’s future

The record achieved this Saturday doesn’t change the fact that Antoine Griezmann might be nearing the end of his time with Atletico Madrid. There has been speculation for some time that he could leave the Spanish club in the near future to experience his first career stint outside of Spain.

Major League Soccer seems to be one of the most likely destinations for the 2018 World Cup winner with France. “I’ve always said my goal is to finish in the MLS,” Griezmann said in 2023. “It’s a dream for me to play in the United States and enjoy soccer there.”

Despite this, and rumors about a possible move to Los Angeles FC to reunite with his former French national teammates Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud, it appears Griezmann has agreed to stay with Atletico Madrid for at least one more season, so MLS will have to wait.

Former Barcelona forward gave a subtle hint during the last FIFA international break, following France’s 3-1 loss to Italy in the opening match of the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League. After the game, Griezmann lingered on the field at Paris’ Parc des Princes, waving to the crowd in what now feels like a farewell gesture.

French media had already been reporting that Griezmann’s relationship with some key figures in the squad wasn’t the same, particularly with head coach Didier Deschamps and Kylian Mbappe. This tension reportedly stemmed from Deschamps’ decision to name the Real Madrid star as the new captain after Hugo Lloris’ departure.

However, Mbappe quickly shut down any speculation about friction by posting a heartfelt message on his social media accounts, paying tribute to Griezmann.

“An exceptional player ending his career with the French National Team,” Mbappe wrote. “One of the most important players of our national team’s modern era. Thank you for the unforgettable memories you’ve given us, for leading this team for so many years, and for playing a huge role in bringing it to the top with numerous titles.”

“Some may think it’s too soon to step away, but I understand and respect your decision,” he added. “Wearing this jersey demands more and often without the recognition that comes with it. You’ll remain a part of France’s football history forever. I’ll never forget the honor and pleasure it was to play alongside you for so many years. I never took that for granted. Safe travels, my friend, and THANK YOU.”

Who else left the France NT after the Qatar 2022 World Cup?

In addition to Antoine Griezmann, three other players from France’s 2022 FIFA World Cup Final squad have also stepped away from international duty. Hugo Lloris was the first to retire, followed by Olivier Giroud, and then Raphael Varane, just days before Griezmann’s announcement.

France’s upcoming matches

As part of the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League, France will face Israel on Thursday, October 10, in Bozsik Aréna, Budapest, and Belgium on Monday, October 14, in King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels.

Griezmann won one World Cup with France and also played in the 2022 final. In total, the former Barcelona star scored 4 World Cup goals and won the Silver Boot in 2018. He also claimed the Nations League title with France in the 2020/21 season.

“Today, with deep emotion, I announce my retirement as a player for the French national team. After 10 incredible years, filled with challenges, successes, and unforgettable moments, it’s time to turn the page and make way for the new generation… Wearing this jersey has been an honor and a privilege. From March 2014 until last September, I had the chance to experience amazing moments alongside exceptional teammates. We shared victories that will remain etched in our memories forever,” Griezmann wrote on his social media.

Antoine Griezmann’s France Highlights

Griezmann has had numerous memorable moments with the French national team. Here are some of his best highlights:

2016 UEFA Euro Final: Griezmann was instrumental in leading France to the final against Portugal. He scored six goals throughout the tournament, earning the Golden Boot as the top scorer. His performance showcased his ability to rise in critical matches.

2018 FIFA World Cup: Griezmann played a pivotal role in France’s World Cup victory. He scored four goals, including a crucial penalty in the final against Croatia, helping secure a 4-2 win. His assist to Paul Pogba in that match was also a highlight of his playmaking ability.

2018 World Cup Viral Celebration: Griezmann’s memorable goal celebration, mimicking the “Take the L” dance, went viral, capturing the spirit and joy of the tournament and further endearing him to fans.

Key Contributions in World Cup Qualifiers: Throughout the qualification matches, Griezmann consistently delivered strong performances, contributing vital goals and assists that helped France secure their spot in the tournament, scoring 10 goals and providing 7 assists.

Griezmann’s last international goal came in a 2-1 defeat to Germany on September 13, 2023, where he served as the French captain on that occasion.

“Playing a game in Madrid in 2025 demonstrates La Liga’s continued expansion of its global footprint and ambition to bring our game to more fans around the world. We are proud to partner with Real Madrid, a global brand, along with the City of Madrid and the Madrid Regional Government, to bring a spectacular regular season game to Spain in a world-class Santiago Bernabéu setting,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

In an effort to bring the brands together, the NFL uploaded a skills competition video featuring Antoine Griezmann of Atlético Madrid and San Francisco 49ers star Tyshun “Deebo” Samuel.

NFL Star Deebo Samuel Shows Off His Soccer Skills

In an 11-minute video uploaded on the NFL’s YouTube page, Deebo Samuel participates in soccer drills, kicking the ball into specific portions of the net under the watchful eye of the French World Cup winner.

Eventually, it was Antoine Griezmann’s turn to showcase his skills, and the Atlético Madrid star proved he “got hands” as he caught various throws while running in different areas on the field, impressing Deebo Samuel.

The video has since gone viral, demonstrating that both Deebo Samuel and Antoine Griezmann can handle each other’s version of “football.”