Share

Griezmann says heart with Barca after ugly Atletico exit

Tokyo - 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.

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. 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
67% - 913 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
33% - 441 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE