Orlando City, a MLS club, announced on Sunday that Atletico Madrid's all-time top scorer Antoine Griezmann will officially join the club this summer as a designated player. The contract runs until December 31, 2028, with an option to extend for another year.

The official announcement also confirmed that Griezmann will continue to wear his iconic number 7 jersey after joining the team. According to RMC Sport, his annual salary at Orlando City is approximately €10 million.

Regarding Griezmann's arrival, Orlando City owner and chairman Mark Wilf commented: "Antoine's arrival is a landmark moment for our club, our city, our fans, and MLS. He is one of the most talented, accomplished, and influential players of his generation. His choice to join Orlando City fully reflects our club's mission and culture. Our goal is to consistently build a championship-contending squad every year, and Antoine's arrival not only reinforces our commitment but also strengthens our confidence in the club's future achievements."

Orlando City General Manager and Sporting Director Ricardo Moreira added: “Antoine is a complete player – creative, clear-headed, and a great finisher – and has proven himself a winner on the highest stage of football. In addition to his talent, his leadership, never-say-die spirit, and champion mentality will inspire every teammate around him. This signing is of great significance to our club and the ownership group, and we are delighted to welcome Antoine and his family to Orlando.”

The 35-year-old Griezmann came through Real Sociedad's youth academy and joined Atlético Madrid in July 2014 for €54 million. He played for Atlético Madrid for ten seasons at different stages of his career, making 488 appearances, scoring 211 goals and providing 97 assists, and winning the Europa League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the Spanish Super Cup with the team.

Besides Atlético Madrid, Griezmann also played for Real Sociedad and Barcelona in La Liga. During this time, he made 304 appearances across all competitions, contributing 87 goals and 35 assists, and won one Copa del Rey title with Barcelona.

Antoine Griezmann was also a key member of the French national team, representing the country in three World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022) and three European Championships (2016, 2021, 2024). From 2014 to 2024, he made 137 appearances for France, scoring 44 goals and providing 38 assists, and lifted the World Cup trophy in Russia in 2018.

After signing the contract, Griezmann said: "I am very excited to start a new chapter in my career in Orlando. From my first communication with the club, I felt their strong ambition and clear vision for the future, and I was deeply moved by it. I can't wait to make Orlando my new home, meet the fans, feel the passion of Inter&Co Stadium, and do my best to help the team achieve great things."

Image source: Internet/Orlando City official website