Atletico Madrid News
Griezmann’s phenomenal FIFA World Cup 2022 run ends in heartbreak
Antoine Griezmann’s phenomenal run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup came to a painful end on Sunday as Argentina beat the French National Team on penalties to lift the coveted trophy. A second consecutive championship was not meant to be for Griezmann’s side as they were clearly second-best for over 70 minutes.
The Atletico Madrid star did not score a single goal in the competition, but provided three assists – the joint-highest in the tournament along with Bruno Fernandes, Lionel Messi, Harry Kane and Ivan Perisic.
Griezmann was France’s creator-in-chief throughout the course of the tournament, making things tick from a midfield role. Kylian Mbappe may have walked off with the Golden Boot, but one cannot deny that it was the former Barcelona man who was the heartbeat of the team.
Statistically, the 31-year-old recorded an expected assists tally (xA) of 3.63 in the tournament, the highest ever in the history of the World Cup. The next highest contenders are Diego Maradona with a figure of 3.46 in 1986 and Johan Cruyff with 3.23 in 1974.
The Atletico Madrid superstar created seven big chances in the tournament, once again the joint-highest, along with Golden Ball winner Messi.
Griezmann’s contribution will surely go down statistically in the history books as the best-ever performance by a supporting player in terms of created chances.
Despite that, however, the French international was overlooked when it came to individual accolades as it was Mbappe who won the Silver Ball behind Messi and Luka Modric of Croatia was awarded the Bronze Ball.
Griezmann has been in fine form for Atletico Madrid in La Liga too, scoring five goals and providing three assists in 14 appearances for the club.
Further, one must remember that his staggering league numbers stand despite his harsh treatment and exclusion from action at the beginning of the season.
If the player can retain his high level for the rest of the season, Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid can hope for redemption and a strong comeback. It is no secret that Griezmann is fundamental to his club’s plans and success, and the coming weeks look bright for both parties.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
