Antoine Griezmann Set for MLS Move: Orlando City Signs French Icon

Orlando City SC has secured one of the most decorated attackers of the modern era. The club announced on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the signing of 2018 FIFA World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann to a Designated Player contract, marking a seismic shift in the landscape of Major League Soccer.

The 35-year-old French forward joins the Lions from Atlético Madrid, concluding a storied tenure in Spain. While the announcement has sent shockwaves through the global soccer community, Griezmann will not move to Florida immediately. He is slated to finish the current campaign with Atlético Madrid before joining Orlando when the summer transfer window opens on July 13.

Contract Details and Timeline

The agreement is a two-year deal that runs through the 2027-28 season. Orlando City has too secured a club option for the 2028-29 campaign, ensuring the veteran attacker could potentially lead the line in Florida for several years.

As with most high-profile international transfers, the move remains contingent on several formalities. Griezmann must pass a medical examination and receive both his P-1 visa and an International Transfer Certificate before he can officially take the pitch at Inter&Co Stadium.

For those following the MLS calendar, this move aligns with the secondary transfer window in July, allowing Orlando to integrate Griezmann during the mid-season stretch.

A Legacy of Excellence

Griezmann arrives in the United States as a proven winner on the world’s biggest stages. His professional resume is defined by a rare combination of clinical finishing and creative playmaking. Across 792 professional appearances for Real Sociedad, FC Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid, Griezmann has recorded 298 goals and 132 assists.

His trophy cabinet reflects this consistency:

• With Atlético Madrid: 2017-18 UEFA Europa League, 2018 UEFA Super Cup, and the 2014 Spanish Supercopa.
• With FC Barcelona: 2020-21 Copa del Rey.
• With Real Sociedad: 2009-10 LaLiga 2 title.

Even in his final season with Atlético, Griezmann has remained a potent threat, logging 13 goals and four assists across all competitions. His arrival in MLS isn’t just about name recognition; it is about bringing a player who is still producing top-tier numbers at the highest level of European football.

The Ambition Behind the Move

For Orlando City, this signing is a statement of intent. Mark Wilf, the club’s Owner and Chairman, described the acquisition as a “landmark moment” for the organization, the city, and the league. Wilf emphasized that Griezmann’s decision to choose Orlando reflects the club’s culture and its mission to consistently build a championship-caliber roster.

Ricardo Moreira, Orlando City’s General Manager and Sporting Director, praised Griezmann as a “complete footballer,” highlighting his intelligence and clinical nature. Moreira noted that beyond the technical skill, Griezmann brings a “championship mentality” and leadership that is expected to elevate the entire squad.

Griezmann himself expressed a strong connection to the club’s vision during his initial conversations. “I am extremely excited to begin this next chapter of my career with Orlando City,” Griezmann said in a statement. “From my first conversations with the Club, I could sense a strong ambition and a clear vision for the future, and that really spoke to me.”

The French international added that he is eager to meet the supporters and experience the energy of Inter&Co Stadium as he makes Orlando his latest home.

What This Means for Orlando City

Integrating a player of Griezmann’s stature requires more than just a contract; it requires a tactical shift. As a Designated Player, Griezmann will be the focal point of the Lions’ attack. His ability to operate as a traditional striker or a creative playmaker gives Orlando immense flexibility in how they approach the latter half of the season.

The timing of his arrival in July is critical. Joining mid-season allows the club to assess their needs before the playoffs and provides Griezmann with a window to adapt to the physical demands of MLS before the 2027-28 campaign begins in earnest.

Quick Facts: Antoine Griezmann’s Transfer

The soccer world now looks toward July. Until then, Griezmann will remain in Madrid, finishing his duties with Atlético while preparing for a new chapter in Florida.

Next Checkpoint: Antoine Griezmann is expected to join Orlando City SC following the opening of the summer transfer window on July 13, 2026, pending the completion of his medical and visa requirements.

Do you think Griezmann will lead Orlando City to an MLS Cup? Share your thoughts in the comments below.