Griezmann says heart with Barca after ugly Atletico exit
Antoine Griezmann on Monday said he couldn't wait to make his Barcelona debut and that his heart was with the team as he tries to move on from a sour exit from Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona’s French forward Antoine Griezmann (L) answers questions as Croatian midfielder Ivan Rakitic (R) looks on during a pre-match press conference ahead of their Rakuten Cup football match with Chelsea, in Machida, suburban Tokyo on July 22, 2019. (Photo by Kazuhiro NOGI / AFP)
Griezmann’s 120 million euros ($135 million) transfer was contested by Atletico, who insisted Barcelona should have paid a higher price for the World Cup-winning French striker.
But he told media in Tokyo: “I am very happy about the outcome of my transfer. I am very eager to play as soon as possible.”
“I wish Atletico players all the best of luck. I am focused on giving my all so that Barca will deliver good results,” he said in Spanish through a translator.
Barcelona’s offer triggered Griezmann’s release clause but Atletico said the Catalan club negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from 200 million euros at the start of July.
Atletico are reportedly planning to take their case to FIFA.
Griezmann voiced his appreciation for his time at Atletico and his strong relationship with their coach, Diego Simeone.
But the Frenchman said he was now committed to Barca.
“I am focused on fitting in among the Barcelona players. My heart is here with them,” he said.
The Spanish giants will play a friendly against Chelsea on Tuesday, and on Saturday they face Japan’s Vissel Kobe, who feature ex-Barca players Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper.
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