Antoine Griezmann has finally made his long-anticipated move to MLS, signing with Orlando City after nearly a decade of speculation about his potential arrival in the American league. The French forward addressed the league's "Next Chapter" event in New York on Thursday, confirming his decision to pursue the final phase of his career in the United States at what he views as his physical and mental peak.
Griezmann's arrival marks a watershed moment for MLS's global appeal. The Atlético Madrid legend comes off a productive campaign in La Liga, recording seven goals and four assists while helping Atlético reach the Copa del Rey final before falling to Real Sociedad. "It's always been a dream to finish my career here in the United States," Griezmann said at the event. He credited Orlando's ownership, led by Mark Wilf, and sporting director Ricardo Moreira for convincing him that the timing was right. "After I met with Mark Wilf and Ricardo Moreira, I fell in love with the club philosophy, and my wife fell in love with the city."
MLS as a Global Destination
Commissioner Don Garber used the event to frame MLS's post-2026 World Cup trajectory. He reflected on the failed 2022 World Cup bid as a blessing in disguise, noting that the four-year wait allowed the league to expand its club base, raise playing standards, and construct better infrastructure. "Failure isn't fatal," Garber remarked, highlighting how the disappointment energized U.S. Soccer and accelerated women's soccer reorganization. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, has exceeded expectations and generated unprecedented momentum for domestic football.
Griezmann echoed optimism about the league's direction, emphasizing the influx of world-class talent and the emergence of young homegrown players heading to Europe. "The competition, the quality of the players arriving here is always improving," he noted. He specifically highlighted how the 2026 World Cup is inspiring American youth to embrace the sport, creating a virtuous cycle of grassroots development and elite-level entertainment.
Pulisic's Path Remains Uncertain
While Griezmann's signing dominates headlines, uncertainty surrounds Christian Pulisic's future in MLS. New York City FC confirmed interest in the American winger during the event, though sources suggest Pulisic "wants to be back home." The U.S. national team star's contractual situation and preferences will determine whether a high-profile homecoming materializes before the 2026 World Cup, when the American midfielder could serve as a marquee figure for the host nation's tournament.
