Griezmann created further history with Atletico on Tuesday as the “ageless” Frenchman brought up his 200th goal for the Spanish side, becoming the first player in Los Rojiblancos’ history to reach the milestone. Simeone spoke highly of Griezmann after his team beat Frankfurt 5-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday to continue their red-hot winning streak.
“I’m grateful to Antoine and his time at Atletico Madrid,” Simeone told reporters after the game. “He’s scored 200 goals, which is crazy. I remember when he arrived. He was a short winger on the left, and we invited him to play one-on-one and as an attacking midfielder, and he grew to become a world champion. He’s always been a role model for his effort and work, and today he’s received the thanks he deserves. We’re grateful for everything he has given us and for everything he gives us and will continue to give us, because talent has no age.”
At the end of last season, there were rumours indicating that Griezmann’s time at the Metropolitano was coming to an end. Despite not being an indispensable member of the starting XI, the 34-year-old decided to prolong his stay in the Spanish capital until 2027 after reports that he was leaning towards to a move to MLS side Los Angeles FC. This season, he has only managed 416 minutes in nine games so far. Indeed, Simeone has handed Griezmann a starting berth just four times, twice in the Champions League and as many times in La Liga.
It is clear that Griezmann will be used majorly in an impact role off the bench this season, with Simeone placing his bets on the likes of Julian Alvarez, Giacomo Raspadori and Alexander Sorloth in attack. However, the French playmaker will have a chance to create more history with Los Colchoneros this season. Indeed, he is currently seventh of the list of most appearances for Atleti. By the end of the season, he could become just the fourth player in Atleti history to play 500 games for the club, after legend Adelardo and current team-mates Koke and Jan Oblak.
