Atlético Madrid president on Antoine Griezmann MLS rumours: I don’t see a problem
Enrique Cerezo is playing it cool on Antoine Griezmann’s future at Atletico Madrid despite Orlando City rumours persisting
Enrique Cerezo is playing it cool on Antoine Griezmann’s future at Atletico Madrid despite Orlando City rumours persisting
Antoine Griezmann played 90 minutes on Tuesday night as Atlético Madrid advanced to the Copa del Rey final, but with less than 18 months remaining on his deal, his future has been a cause for great speculation. One man who is relaxed on that front, however, is club president Enrique Cerezo.
Recent rumours have suggested Griezmann is attracting serious interest from MLS sides including Orlando City, who hold his discovery rights, giving them first option over other franchises in the league.
The MLS transfer window is open until March 26, but suggestions that Griezmann could move before then appeared to have cooled.
Atlético Madrid president relaxed on Griezmann future
Atlético figurehead Cerezo also appears unconcerned by the rumours. From his perspective, the Frenchman is under contract and focused on helping Los Colchoneros.
“We’re just thinking about the big game, which is on Sunday against Real Sociedad. And then Tottenham,” Cerezo told Cadena SER after Atlético edged passed Barcelona in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday.
“Griezmann knows he is an Atlético player and, besides, he had a great game today.”
However, when pressed further on Griezmann’s future, Cerezo spoke with greater clarity and calmness.
“We all know what the mystery is, he’s an Atlético Madrid player,” said Cerezo.
“Is he going to stay? In theory I don’t see any problem and I’ve always said that, whenever there’s an issue, you know I’m very honest and I say it.
“But at this moment I don’t see any reason or problem.”
Plenty for Griezmann to focus on at Atlético
Griezmann himself could be forgiven for not having given his future much thought as the games are coming thick and fast for an Atléti side competing on three fronts.
They have a Champions League last 16 tie with Tottenham to think about as well as the ongoing battle to finish as high as possible in LaLiga.
In the league, Atléti currently sit 3rd, level on points with Villarreal in 4th and nine behind Real Madrid in 2nd.
Meanwhile, after weathering the Barcelona comeback storm, they have the Copa del Rey final on April 18 to look forward to.
They will face either Athletic Club or Real Sociedad who play the second leg of their semi-final on Wednesday March 4.
