“Griezmann can bid farewell to Atlético in style.”

With the most decisive night in European football approaching, the focus is on one of Atlético Madrid’s most emblematic players: Antoine Griezmann. The French forward, who is set to close his chapter in the Spanish capital at the end of this season, could seal his love story with the club in a memorable fashion, in a titanic battle against Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals.

Even before the pre-match press conference against Barcelona in the quarter-finals began, Diego Simeone delivered a rare moment in modern football: he opened the session with an emotional tribute to Griezmann, making clear the profound impact the Frenchman has had on Atlético. “I want to thank you for your effort and humility,” Simeone said, visibly emotional, surprising Griezmann himself. “You are an admirable example in a society where young people need references like you. Thank you for everything you have given us, for what you still give, and for what you will continue to give.”

Despite all signs pointing to his immediate transfer to Major League Soccer, Antoine Griezmann insisted on staying in Madrid until the last game of the season, thus ensuring a dignified farewell to his home of nearly a decade, where he has made an impressive 494 appearances and scored 212 goals.

Curiously, the career of the French international could have taken a completely different path. In 2013, when he was still playing for Real Sociedad, Griezmann revealed in his autobiography that he came very close to signing with Arsenal and playing under Arsène Wenger. “I waited, I waited, and I kept waiting,” wrote the forward. “Until, just a few hours before the transfer window closed, we were told that Arsenal would not proceed. I don’t like promises that don’t materialize. When my agent told me that the London club was interested again, I replied: ‘Forget it, after the blow they gave us.’”

The following year, Griezmann moved to Madrid to join Atlético for a fee of 30 million euros, transferring to a club that would mark his career forever. Today, at 35 years old, he is Atlético’s all-time top scorer and a true icon of Spanish football. His legacy transcends the trophies won and the scoring statistics.

Griezmann’s importance to Atlético is immeasurable. He is more than just a goalscorer – he is the living embodiment of the values of the colchonero club. Charismatic, a natural leader, and tireless in his efforts, the Frenchman fits perfectly into Simeone’s player profile: total dedication, absolute commitment, and an unwavering desire to put the collective above the individual. It is not often that you see a World Champion with such influence and humility, especially at a club that constantly strives to win the biggest trophies.

Simeone does not hide his admiration and affection for Griezmann, even stating that he loves him. The legendary Thierry Henry also made a point of publicly paying tribute to him, acknowledging his contribution to football. After a turbulent period and an unpopular departure to Barcelona, Griezmann’s return to Atlético was marked by a public apology and a sincere reconnection with the fans – a gesture that only strengthened the bond between player and club.

Although he has not amassed a vast collection of titles, Griezmann has won trophies such as the Supercopa de España and the European Championship, but what truly sets him apart is his impact both on and off the pitch. For an entire generation of fans, Griezmann is synonymous with Atlético, the face of a team that fights until the end with passion, determination, and team spirit.

Now, with the Champions League on the horizon and the opportunity to write the final chapter of his story in Madrid in grand style, Antoine Griezmann is preparing to give everything in one last dance that could immortalize his legend at Atlético de Madrid. Will this be the night when the Frenchman closes the chapter on a high note? The eyes of the world will be watching.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.