Álvarez uncertain about his future with Atlético Madrid; Griezmann set to remain
Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone expressed his satisfaction with Antoine Griezmann’s announcement that he will remain with the club until the season’s conclusion, while also expressing hope that Griezmann’s strike partner Julián Álvarez “can remain for many years” following the Argentina World Cup winner’s comments regarding his own future.
Álvarez netted two goals, and Griezmann also scored, in Atlético’s 5-2 victory over Tottenham in the first leg of the Champions League last 16 at the Metropolitano on Tuesday.
According to ESPN, Griezmann had previously paused a potential transfer to Orlando City, having considered a move to MLS this month, prior to the transfer window closing on March 26.
“I’m happy here, I’m enjoying myself a lot,” Griezmann stated to Movistar on Tuesday. “What I do on the pitch speaks for itself. We’ll see, but my intention is to continue until the end.
“[Playing in the Copa del Rey final next month] is my dream, my goal, and let’s hope we can achieve something significant.”
Atlético is scheduled to compete against Real Sociedad in the cup final on April 18, providing Griezmann with the opportunity to secure a trophy he has yet to win with the club.
“I’m very pleased with Antoine’s explanation,” Simeone remarked when Griezmann’s statements were brought up during the coach’s post-match press conference. “He understands his significance in Atlético Madrid’s history. Let’s hope we can assist him in continuing to help us.”
In the meantime, star forward Álvarez — who has tallied 16 goals across all competitions this season — seemed to imply uncertainty about his future at Atlético when questioned after the victory over Tottenham about his status for next season.
“I don’t know, I might be, or I might not,” Álvarez told reporters. “I’m happy. I’m focused on the day-to-day.”
“He appears happy to me,” Simeone noted. “He’s scoring goals; if you consider the teams he’s played for [River Plate and Manchester City], Atlético is the club where he has scored the most. He seems dedicated and positive. There isn’t much difference between this season and last season regarding his goal tally.
“Let’s hope he can remain at Atlético Madrid for many years, and we can continue to build a team that attracts important players to stay.”
Simeone also commended USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso, who played the full 90 minutes against Spurs after dealing with injuries earlier in the season. U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino was present in the stands to observe Cardoso’s development.
“He’s improving,” Simeone stated. “He’s worked hard personally to develop himself and contribute to the team.
“He’s achieving the consistency he required, based on his contributions to the team.”
Atlético will head to north London to face Tottenham for the second leg on March 18.
