End of an era: The first player to leave Atlético Madrid after the season's failure
A key departure is on the horizon as Atlético Madrid prepare for major changes after a disappointing campaign.
Antoine Griezmann and Atletico Madrid appear to be heading towards their final months together. Barring an unexpected turn of events, the French forward will bring his second spell at the club to an end at the conclusion of the season. While he remains an important figure in the squad, his influence has waned, and his fit within Diego Simeone’s system is no longer ideal.
The 33-year-old striker has been one of Atletico’s most decisive players over the past decade, but his role within the team has changed. His performances have been inconsistent, and with the club seeking a squad overhaul, the board believes now is the right time for restructuring. Griezmann himself is also considering new challenges as he enters the latter stages of his career.
Atletico Madrid in crisis with no trophies in sight
The 2024/25 season has been one of the most disappointing of the Simeone era. In the Champions League, Atletico were eliminated earlier than expected, failing to compete on equal terms with Europe’s elite. In the Copa del Rey, an early exit left the team without a domestic trophy to fight for. Meanwhile, in La Liga, the Colchoneros are virtually out of the title race, trailing far behind Real Madrid and Barcelona in the standings.
This situation has accelerated the need for squad changes. The lack of results has highlighted that some cycles are coming to an end, with Griezmann being one of the main candidates for departure. The board wants to rejuvenate the team and invest in fresh talent to restore Atletico’s competitiveness at the highest level.
An uncertain future for Griezmann
Despite his likely exit, Griezmann’s next destination remains unclear. Some rumours link him with a move to Major League Soccer, where several clubs have shown interest in securing his services. A return to France is also a possibility, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly considering him as an option.
The French forward has yet to make a final decision, but he is aware that his time at Atletico is drawing to a close. His departure would mark the end of a chapter filled with memorable moments, including key goals and silverware that cemented his status as a club legend.
Atletico planning a major squad overhaul
Beyond Griezmann’s exit, Atletico Madrid are preparing for an active transfer window. The board is determined to strengthen multiple positions and reshape the squad to become competitive across all competitions once again. More departures are expected in the coming months, as the club seeks players who better fit their new project.
The end of the season will be a turning point for an Atletico side in need of reinvention. Griezmann’s departure could be just the first step in a transformation aimed at bringing the club back to the top of European football.
