Barcelona Are To Finalize Issues With Atletico Madrid Over A Great Player

Barcelona & Atletico Madrid Close to Finalizing Antoine Griezmann Saga | Here’s What You Should Know

The long-running transfer saga involving Antoine Griezmann, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid is finally approaching its conclusion.

After months of tense negotiations, tactical substitutions, and financial wrangling, both clubs are reportedly close to settling their long-standing dispute over the French forward’s future.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the situation, what caused the standoff, and how it’s being resolved, plus why it matters for all parties involved.

Griezmann’s Complex Return to Atletico Madrid

On a two-year loan deal, Griezmann, 31, rejoined Atletico Madrid from Barcelona in 2021. However, this was no ordinary loan:

Barcelona inserted a €40 million (£35m) obligatory buy clause, triggered if Griezmann played 45+ minutes in at least 50% of matches over the loan period.
In his first season back, Griezmann comfortably exceeded that threshold, playing more than 80% of Atletico’s fixtures.

Yet, something changed in the following campaign.

The Minute Management Tactic

In a bizarre twist, Atletico Madrid began limiting Griezmann’s playing time, consistently bringing him on after the 60th-minute mark.

He started only two matches early in the season (against Real Madrid and Club Brugge), both of which Atletico lost.
Observers believed this was a strategic move to avoid activating the €40 million clause, saving Atletico a hefty sum.

When questioned about these deliberate substitutions, manager Diego Simeone firmly responded:

“You’ve known me for 10 years as a coach. I’m a club man and I always will be.”

Despite the public deflection, the underlying tension was clear.

Barcelona & Atletico Reach a Compromise

According to ESPN, after prolonged discussions, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are now close to finalizing a permanent deal for Griezmann.

Atletico will reportedly pay just over €20 million, slightly more than half the original clause.
This compromise suits all parties:
- Barcelona offloads a high-wage player with limited market interest.
- Atletico retains a key figure in their squad.
- Griezmann secures stability ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

Griezmann’s Motivation | The World Cup Factor

With the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar fast approaching, Griezmann was eager to resolve his uncertain club situation.

France, the reigning champions, are aiming to defend their crown, and Griezmann remains a vital part of Didier Deschamps’ squad.

Resolving his future ensures

Regular playing time.
Full fitness and form.
A clear mind heading into the tournament.

Griezmann’s Legacy & The Bigger Picture

While his €120m move to Barcelona in 2019 was widely deemed a failure, Griezmann’s stature at Atletico Madrid remains intact.

4th All-Time Top Scorer for Atletico Madrid.
Integral in Simeone’s tactical setup.
A fan favorite despite his controversial departure in 2019.

The deal provides much-needed financial relief for Barcelona. The club continues its economic restructuring, and offloading Griezmann’s wages was crucial.

Key Takeaways

Barcelona & Atletico Madrid are finalizing a reduced permanent deal for Antoine Griezmann.
Atletico to pay slightly over €20 million, a compromise on the original €40 million clause.
Griezmann will regain full match involvement ahead of the Qatar World Cup.
Barcelona benefits from freeing up its wage bill amid financial constraints.