Griezmann's MLS Move to Orlando City in Doubt as Simeone Pushes Him to Stay at Atlético

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone reportedly working to convince star forward to remain with the club.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Antoine Griezmann's potential move from Atlético Madrid to MLS club Orlando City has hit a snag, as Atlético manager Diego Simeone is reportedly pushing the French forward to stay with the Spanish club. Griezmann had been in advanced talks to join Orlando City, but Simeone's recent comments suggest he is now close to convincing Griezmann to turn down the MLS offer and remain at Atlético, especially after the team's recent Copa del Rey semifinal victory over Barcelona.

Why it matters

Griezmann's move to Orlando City would have been a major coup for MLS, bringing one of the world's top players to the league. However, Atlético's run to the Copa del Rey final has changed the calculus, with Simeone determined to keep Griezmann to help the club compete for the trophy.

The details

Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has reportedly shifted his stance and is now close to convincing Griezmann to stay with the Spanish club rather than make the move to MLS and Orlando City. This comes after Atlético's surprise Copa del Rey semifinal victory over Barcelona, in which Griezmann played a key role. Simeone has publicly praised Griezmann's commitment and expressed his hope that the Frenchman will be able to play in the Copa del Rey final on April 18.

  • Atlético Madrid advanced to the Copa del Rey final on March 1, 2026.
  • The 2025-26 Copa del Rey final is scheduled for April 18, 2026 in Seville.

The players

Antoine Griezmann

A French professional footballer who plays as a forward for Atlético Madrid.

Diego Simeone

The head coach of Atlético Madrid, who is reportedly working to convince Griezmann to remain with the club.

Orlando City

An MLS club that had been in advanced talks to sign Griezmann, but now faces uncertainty over the potential transfer.

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What they’re saying

“I certainly hope so. He deserves it more than anyone. What he gave on the pitch today, the way he ran, was incredible. The quality and talent he possesses is something he will carry with him for the rest of his life.”

— Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid Head Coach (Cadena SER)

“What more can I add to what you already know I feel for him? I love him dearly, I always want the best for him, and I truly hope he gets to play in that final.”

— Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid Head Coach (Cadena SER)

What’s next

The 2025-26 Copa del Rey final is scheduled for April 18, 2026 in Seville, which falls after the MLS transfer window closes. This presents Griezmann with a difficult choice - stay at Atlético to play in the final, or make the move to Orlando City before the window shuts.

The takeaway

Griezmann's potential move to MLS and Orlando City has hit a roadblock, as Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has shifted his stance and is now working to convince the French forward to remain with the Spanish club, especially after their recent Copa del Rey semifinal victory over Barcelona. Simeone's public praise for Griezmann and the lure of a Copa del Rey final appearance have complicated the player's decision.