Antoine Griezmann's Move To MLS On Hold After Atletico Madrid Makes Copa del Rey Final

Antoine Griezmann has reportedly suspended his highly anticipated transfer to MLS side Orlando City in order to remain at Atletico Madrid for the time being.

Driven by the desire to end his personal trophy drought with the Spanish giants, the French forward has opted to remain in Madrid for the upcoming Copa del Rey final, delaying his American dream until the summer window.

Àccording to ESPN, Griezmann has put a potential move to MLS club Orlando City on hold this season. The Florida-based outfit had been pushing for an immediate deal, with an offer reportedly contingent on the 34-year-old arriving before the primary MLS transfer window deadline on March 26.

However, Atletico Madrid's progression to the Copa del Rey final, which takes place on April 18 created a direct scheduling conflict. Knowing that Orlando may explore other alternatives by the time the summer window opens in July, Griezmann has still chosen to prioritize his current sporting commitments in the Spanish capital.

(AFP)

The primary motivation behind Griezmann's decision is his deep desire to win a major title under Diego Simeone. Despite scoring a record 210 goals for the club, the Frenchman's last major honor with Los Rojiblancos was the 2018 UEFA Super Cup, missing out on the team's 2021 LaLiga triumph during his stint at Barcelona.

Atletico reached the final despite a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona in their semi-final second leg at Camp Nou on Tuesday, and will now face either former side Real Sociedad or Athletic Club. Staying allows Griezmann to chase this deeply personal quest for silverware and enjoy a potentially poetic farewell.

Simeone has been remarkably candid about his star man's future, acknowledging that Griezmann has earned the right to