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Griezmann reveals why he rejected Al-Nassr
Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann has acknowledged that there was interest in him during the summer transfer window.
However, he has made it abundantly clear that his desire was to remain with Los Colchoneros.
Griezmann’s move from Barcelona to Atletico Madrid was made permanent this summer as part of a deal agreed upon in October. Since then, he has experienced a resurgence in Madrid, becoming a pivotal figure in the team’s performance during the latter part of the season. Griezmann’s impressive stats of 15 goals and 16 assists in La Liga made him the leading contributor among all players in the league.
While confirming the reported interest in his services over the summer, Griezmann emphasized his strong commitment to staying with Atletico Madrid.
Speaking to the media ahead of France’s Euro 2024 qualifying match against Ireland at the Parc des Princes, the vice-captain of the French national team [via GFFN]: “There were calls and contacts, I was focused on my club, I’m 15 goals away from the record for the club’s all-time top scorer,” said the Atletico Madrid midfielder, adding “It’s as I told my sister: I’m not moving, I’m staying here.”
Griezmann says that the record is a motivating factor for him to stay at the club, “I’m going to try and break the record, it’s taken a while to reinstate myself in the eyes of the fans – it isn’t the moment to leave.”
Earlier in the summer, there were rumors linking the Frenchman Antoine Griezmann to a move to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, as the club was reportedly interested in pairing the 32-year-old with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. With Griezmann now affirming his commitment to Atletico Madrid, he can wholeheartedly concentrate on pursuing the record for the most goals scored for the club in the league, a record currently held by Luis Aragones.
Griezmann’s immediate focus will be on representing the French national team in the Euro Qualifiers against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday evening, showcasing his dedication to both club and country.