Key Takeaways:
- Antoine Griezmann played his final match at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano for Atletico Madrid, assisting the only goal in a 1-0 win over Girona
- The 35-year-old concluded a decade-long spell at the club and will join Orlando City in MLS this summer
- Griezmann publicly apologised once again for his 2019 transfer to Barcelona and paid tribute to Diego Simeone, Koke, and his family during a post-match speech
Match Conclusion and Griezmann’s Last Appearance
Antoine Griezmann brought the curtain down on his illustrious career at Atletico Madrid with a final home fixture on Sunday at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The French forward, aged 35 and the all-time leading goalscorer for the club, made his last appearance before his impending summer move to MLS outfit Orlando City. The occasion was marked by Atletico Madrid’s narrow 1-0 triumph over Girona, with Griezmann providing the decisive assist to Ademola Lookman.
🚨 Antoine Griezmann: “Please forgive me. I was young and I made a mistake to join Barcelona”.
“I did not understand the love I had here. I recognized my mistake, and did everything to come back and enjoy here”.
“I didn’t win La Liga or the UCL, but your love is what matters”. pic.twitter.com/cm8TyJmMU8
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 17, 2026
Emotional Goodbye and Sincere Apology
Following the match, Griezmann addressed the home supporters with a heartfelt speech. As reported by Sport, the striker opened by reiterating his apology for leaving Atletico Madrid to join Barcelona in the summer of 2019. He admitted that he underestimated the affection he held for the club and described his decision to depart as a mistake, expressing profound regret and gratitude for the opportunity to return and reconnect with the supporters.
Special Acknowledgements to Key Figures
Griezmann did not miss the chance to thank those vital to his journey in Madrid. He reserved particular praise for manager Diego Simeone, hailing him as the driving force behind the club’s transformation and attributing much of his own success, including a World Cup triumph, to Simeone’s influence. The Frenchman also acknowledged Koke Resurreccion, calling him a club legend, and extended thanks to his wife for unwavering support during challenging times, as well as to his parents for encouraging his passion for football from a young age.
Legacy and Reflections
Reflecting on his career at Atletico, Griezmann noted that while he was unable to deliver league or Champions League titles, the affection of the fans surpassed any silverware. He concluded his speech by thanking the broader Atletico family for their dedication and for instilling club values in future generations.
