Why so many want Griezmann to win the Champions League before he leaves | OneFootball

Antoine Griezmann enters what could be his final Champions League nights in Europe as Atlético Madrid host Arsenal in Wednesday’s semi-final first leg at 21:00. Across the game, many hope he finally lifts the trophy.

According to L'Équipe, admiration for his style and character has grown as he pursues a long held dream before heading to Orlando in the United States. Koke said gifting him the Champions League as a farewell would be incredible, while Diego Simeone hoped destiny gives him what he has sought.

Beyond Madrid, Alain Giresse said the pull is strong even with PSG in contention, and he would like Griezmann to win it. He calls him a romantic footballer and feels such an ending would crown a superb career. He also argues that the breadth of goodwill is success in itself, and that falling short would not dent his standing.

Marcos Senna said it would be the finest tribute to Griezmann’s talent. Manuel Pellegrini, a long-time admirer, calls him ultra-complete and deserving of that finish. Former Real Sociedad captain Xabi Prieto wants him to leave by the grandest door, a fair reward.

Miguel Ángel Nadal highlighted Griezmann’s humility on and off the pitch, which he says explains the warmth around him. Though he wished Barcelona had not been eliminated, he called an ideal farewell the cherry on Atlético’s love story.

Supporters sense the passing of a player type where intelligence, collective play and precision prevail. Senna wished such footballers never retired, while Prieto said Griezmann’s vision elevates team-mates and that, title or not, his legacy will outlast silverware.

Source: L'Équipe