Antoine Griezmann rejects Orlando City - but MLS transfer is inevitable

Tom Weber

• Updated: 6 Mar 2026 08:55 CST
• 3 min read

News

Atletico Madrid legend Antoine Griezmann has turned down a mid-season move to Orlando City, according to French media.

The 2018 World Cup winner has never made a secret of his desire to play in Major League Soccer. Back in November, Griezmann reiterated that playing in the US is his "goal" and "objective."

Last week, it was revealed that Orlando City were trying to help Griezmann achieve this goal. The 34-year-old was understood to be in advanced talks over a move to Florida, but there was a major question mark over the timing of this proposed transfer.

Orlando, having started the new season with two defeats, were determined to bring Griezmann in before the primary MLS window shuts on 26 March. However, the player was said to be keen to see out the season with Atletico Madrid.

Reports in Spain claimed on Wednesday that Atleti were ready to sell Griezmann because Orlando had made an "amazing" offer, but they ultimately left the decision up to the Frenchman.

Griezmann rejects Orlando

Head coach Diego Simeone, as well as several teammates, urged Griezmann to stay and play in the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad in April. According to L'Equipe, this is exactly what Griezmann will do.

The French outlet understands that the veteran forward has turned down a mid-season move to Orlando. He will not join the Lions this month and will instead remain at Atleti until the summer.

Griezmann, who is under contract until 2027, will reevaluate the situation after the European season. It is believed that he will have a "stronger desire" to make the move stateside then.

Orlando retain his Discovery Rights, giving them priority in negotiations with the player, but the report claims that more MLS teams will come forward to sign Griezmann in the summer.

Long-standing admirers LAFC are said to remain in contact with the former France international, while CF Montreal and Inter Miami have also shown an interest. However, unless Griezmann decides to play on a reduced salary, Miami would first have to free up a Designated Player slot to be able to sign him.

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