Antione Griezmann has revealed that he intends on staying at Atletico Madrid for the foreseeable future in the hope of becoming a club legend, in a pointed message to Erik ten Hag. Manchester United have been linked with the versatile forward in recent weeks, though they will have to turn their attention to alternative targets.
The Red Devils are desperate to bolster their ranks in the January transfer window, with reinforcements required in all departments. At least one centre-back is expected to arrive at Old Trafford, as well as a holding midfielder that can replace Casemiro in the future.
United are also keen to sign another forward, and Griezmann ticks plenty of boxes for Ten Hag as a result. The France international can play across the frontline and has also shown his versatility by playing in midfield.
However, despite reported interest in the ex-Barcelona star, he has revealed that he does not intend to leave Atletico Madrid any time soon as he wants to enhance his reputation further at the Metropolitano Stadium. Asked by Marca about his hopes for the future, Griezmann said: “I am motivated to be someone important at Atlético, to be a legend in this club.
“I know I have to earn it. Now I have many goals for this year, but yes, I want a League and I need it. I’ve never done it and it would be nice. But it is very long and you have to work and see if you are lucky enough to win it.”
Griezmann has scored eight goals in 12 appearances in the La Liga so far this season, and he has credited the rest of the Atletico staff for providing him with what he requires to play his very best football. Speaking about how he can perform at the peak of his powers, the 32-year-old said: “I need to be happy off the field to be happy on it.
“And my teammates, the coach, the physios, the kit players help me with that… there is a very good chemistry with them. And the connection with the fans, which I have been recovering and now you can see that I am looser and happier playing. It is thanks to all that that we are seeing the best version of my game.”
Griezmann then went on to explain that he intends on giving Atletico supporters a reason to truly celebrate by guiding them to a league title, in a message that truly confirmed that he will not entertain talks with United any time soon – and should prompt Ten Hag to return to the drawing board and shortlist a new top target up top.
