Griezmann: Why leaving Barca for Atleti was so hard
Martin Macdonald
- 29 Sept 2021 10:42 BST
- 5 min read
Antoine Griezmann believes he can finally find his best form at Atletico Madrid after scoring a vital Champions League goal against Milan on Tuesday.
After previously starring for Atletico, Griezmann would earn himself a massive €120 million transfer to Barcelona in 2019.
The move ultimately didn't work out, as the Frenchman struggled to establish himself in the team, whether that be due to the way Barcelona play, or the fact that Lionel Messi was the undisputed star.
Barca's financial situation meant that in the summer they were keen to get rid of any high earners, and the decision to let Griezmann go ultimately became a simple one as he wasn't justifying his exorbitant wages.
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And so, he returned to Atletico on loan on deadline day.
Unfortunately for him, he would receive boos from the Atletico fans initially, who remain unhappy about the manner of his previous departure.
Griezmann's goal versus Milan will start to build those bridges, though, and he says it is his performances on the pitch which will earn respect back, not any apology.
"The fans want to see me like this, like tonight and that's the only thing I want, to give them joy, to go to sleep happily," he told Movistar.
"My goal when I return is to make them happy and bring nice things."
Griezmann's difficult return
Prior to the Champions League clash against Milan, Griezmann had gone eight matches for Los Colchoneros without finding the back of the net.
He says he understands the frustrations of the supporters but insists it was difficult to quickly make the adjustments required to play in a different team and system under Diego Simeone.
"I was not comfortable, I could not find myself and with work and with the help of my colleagues and the coach who gives me, I can only improve. My teammates are waiting for me, the club, the fans and I am here for that. I try to get to my best level as soon as possible.
"Much change, in the end everything was done on the last day.
"It is another team, another way of playing. There are many changes, everything is different and I have to get used to it as soon as possible. The coach and the team-mates need me and I hope it will be as soon as possible.
"Nights like this will help me improve."
Atletico had to come from a goal down to win in dramatic fashion in Italy, with Griezmann coming off the bench to score and Luis Suarez grabbing the winner in the 97th minute from the penalty spot.
