Antoine Griezmann revealed that Carlos Vela motivated him to go to the United States
In his presentation with Orlando City, Antoine Griezmann acknowledged that he intends to approach the level of Carlos Vela in the MLS
Antoine Griezmann is Orlando City's new big signing. The American team acquired a footballer who had a relevant campaign with Atlético de Madrid. Griezmann arrives with a great sign behind him and with the intention of leaving numbers similar to those of Carlos Vela.
Carlos Vela and Antoine Griezmann played together for Real Sociedad. Both were part of a feared duo in Spanish football that managed to break multiple patterns in LaLiga. Vela continued his path in the MLS; Griezmann continued to develop in Europe.
But at the age of 35, Antoine Griezmann made the decision to leave the Old Continent. The French forward will now begin a new adventure in American soccer. Carlos Vela left his mark in the United States. Antoine Griezmann wants to do something similar.
"In the end I think that Carlos, everything he has done with LAFC, has led me to want to do the same. He is an incredible player for the MLS and for his club. I hope I can get closer to that level," said the French attacker in his presentation.
Orlando City is not a stellar club in American soccer. However, Antoine Griezmann hopes to lead this club and make it competitive in MLS. That is the initial plan in this new adventure of the “Little Prince” in the United States.
"Today begins a new stage to discover the United States, to feel it, live it and enjoy it playing. A new chapter opens in Florida with Orlando City: a new challenge, a new team and the desire to continue pursuing my dream with you because soccer is a team sport. Now we have to write the next chapter together," he added.
The Orlando City coach will have at his disposal a player who has played 56 games in Europe last season. Griezmann scored 14 goals and conceded 8 assists this campaign. Martín Moreira will have a great leader on the team.
“We wanted someone who could connect all the dots for us, both on and off the pitch (…) We brought in someone who will help us in the locker room with his training habits, his experience, his hunger for trophies and his passion for football,” said the Orlando City strategist.