In a recent interview with Barcelona’s official website after completing his €120m switch from Atletico Madrid, Antoine Griezmann revealed that he is excited for the new challenge at the Nou Camp and said, “I’m very happy. It’s a joy for me to play alongside him.
“He is the number one player for me, like Lebron James in the NBA.
“He is someone that every player can look up to, and he will be a legend to my children – and my children’s children in the future.”
The fact that the French attacker is looking forward to playing alongside Lionel Messi will serve well for the Catalans as they try to win the UEFA Champions League next season. The Barca looked lacklustre at times in the previous campaign, especially in the absence of Messi when Phillipe Coutinho and Luis Suarez struggled to find productivity in the final third.
Griezmann’s Outstanding Playing Career At Atletico Madrid
Thus, Griezmann’s arrival will go a long way in addressing that issue as he is a world-class forward who knows how to find the back of the net consistently at the highest level. The 28-year-old enjoyed another fruitful season at the Spanish capital after he put in a series of goal-scoring displays for Diego Simeone’s side in the La Liga. The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner featured in 48 matches for Atletico in the last term, scoring 21 goals while grabbing ten assists across all competitions.
The Macon-born prospect has also represented France in 72 international matches while scoring 29 goals for them thus far.
What Will The France International Add To Valverde’s Team?
When firing on all cylinders on the field, Griezmann can be an unstoppable force inside the opposition penalty area as he can time his runs to perfection behind the opposition backline. The French sensation has also transformed himself into a regular goal-getter in the attacking third and can even create some decent opportunities for his teammates up front.
Will Griezmann Be An Excellent Acquisition For The Catalan Giants?
Griezmann’s addition will undoubtedly bolster Ernesto Valverde’s attacking options at the Nou Camp. He will not only be an excellent option to play alongside Lionel Messi up top but is also expected to keep Luis Suarez or Phillipe Coutinho out of the Barca first-team next season. The French sensation has already proven his worth in the Spanish top-flight over the past few years, which makes him a brilliant, low-risk signing for the Spanish champions.
