Atletico Madrid Star Griezmann Joins MLS Club Orlando City

The legendary forward leaves Spain for a new challenge in the United States.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a soccer player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the official team colors of Atletico Madrid and Orlando City, conceptually illustrating the transition of a star player from one league to another.Griezmann's move from Atletico Madrid to Orlando City in the MLS signals a new era for the legendary striker and the expanding American soccer league.Today in Orlando

Antoine Griezmann, the renowned Atletico Madrid forward, has announced his departure from the Spanish club to join Major League Soccer's Orlando City. This move marks a significant shift in Griezmann's illustrious career, as he transitions from the prestigious La Liga to the rapidly growing MLS.

Why it matters

Griezmann's move to the MLS is a testament to the league's increasing global appeal and its ability to attract top-tier talent. This transfer highlights the evolving landscape of professional football, where players are exploring opportunities beyond the traditional European powerhouses.

The details

During his time at Atletico Madrid, Griezmann established himself as a club legend, winning the Europa League in 2018 and the league title in 2021. However, his subsequent loan spell back at Atletico was short-lived, and he now embarks on a new chapter with Orlando City in the MLS.

  • Griezmann joined Atletico Madrid in 2014.
  • He won the Europa League with Atletico in 2018.
  • Griezmann helped Atletico win the La Liga title in 2021.
  • He returned to Atletico on loan for the 2021-22 season.
  • Griezmann is set to join Orlando City in the MLS for the 2026 season.

The players

Antoine Griezmann

A legendary forward who spent the majority of his career with Atletico Madrid, winning numerous titles and establishing himself as a fan favorite.

Orlando City

A Major League Soccer (MLS) club based in Orlando, Florida, that has been working to elevate its profile and attract top international talent.

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What they’re saying

“Griezmann's move to the MLS is a significant milestone for the league, which has been working hard to elevate its profile and compete with the big leagues in Europe.”

— Sports Analyst

“This move is not just about the money; it's about the opportunity to grow the game and inspire a new generation of fans. Griezmann's presence in the league will undoubtedly draw attention and spark interest in the sport.”

— Football Commentator

What’s next

Griezmann's move to Orlando City is expected to be officially announced in the coming weeks, and fans will be eager to see how the legendary forward adapts to the MLS and the new challenges it presents.

The takeaway

Griezmann's departure from Atletico Madrid to join Orlando City in the MLS is a significant moment in the evolution of professional football. It highlights the growing global appeal of the MLS and the willingness of top players to explore opportunities beyond the traditional European leagues.