Antoine Griezmann’s career has always carried a spark of drama. Now, whispers and headlines swirl: will Griezmann retire from club football altogether? In this article, DuitKick will walk you through what we know, what seems likely, and what this could mean for Atlético Madrid, MLS, and beyond.
The international curtain: Griezmann’s retirement from France
One fact is indisputable: Griezmann has ended his journey with the French national team. In September 2024, he publicly announced his retirement, calling it a “heart full of memories” and explaining that it was time to hand space to younger players. That moment marked the official end of his involvement with Les Bleus, freeing him.
Retiring from national team duty is not the same as retiring from club life—but for many players, it’s the first step toward winding things down.
Club status: Still going strong — for now
Despite being in his mid-30s, Griezmann remains a key figure for Atlético Madrid. In mid-2025, Atleti announced they had extended his contract through June 2027 — a significant show of trust in their veteran talisman.
He recently scored his 200th goal for the club in a Champions League fixture, reaffirming that he still has that scoring instinct.
However, contract extensions don’t always tell the full story. Reports from Spanish media suggest that Griezmann is actively weighing alternatives and may not remain at Atlético until 2027. Rumors have linked him with a move to Major League Soccer, particularly to Los Angeles FC. Some sources suggest a decision could come as early as March 2026.
In short: he’s still playing, but his path is under careful consideration — and will Griezmann retire.
What might trigger a full retirement?
To assess whether full retirement (not just international) is imminent, let’s examine the possible catalysts:
1. Physical decline and injuries
His consistency has been impressive so far, but aging means recovery slows, vulnerabilities emerge. If injuries begin mounting, he may see club minutes drop sharply.
2. Diminishing motivation
After years in the heat of top-tier competition, some veterans find it hard to sustain drive. If he already stepped away.
3. Attractive offers elsewhere
MLS interest is real. For many European stars, concluding their career in a less intense league with a new life off the pitch makes sense — better paydays, exposure, and lifestyle.
4. Family and personal goals
At some point, the club grind, travel, and training can weigh more heavily than the joy of play itself. A desire to be closer to family or focus on business interests could push him toward life off the pitch.
5. Sentiment and legacy
Griezmann may choose to retire at a moment that preserves his legend — not when he’s no longer effective. He might want to leave on his own terms.
With those in mind, will Griezmann retire soon largely depends on balance between these factors.
Scenarios ahead: Where could Griezmann go?
Let’s map out possible futures,.
Stay at Atlético until 2027
Given the recent extension, one scenario is that he remains at Madrid, playing reduced minutes but contributing as mentor and super-sub, then retires quietly at the end of that deal.
Move to MLS or another softer league
A popular path for aging European stars is to spend 1–2 seasons in a less demanding league, such as MLS, before hanging up boots. Los Angeles FC has been mentioned in reports, though nothing is confirmed.
Take a sabbatical or football hiatus
In rare cases, players temporarily step back — but for someone with Griezmann’s mindset, that seems unlikely.
Immediate retirement
Though unlikely at this moment given his form, abrupt retirements do happen. If a serious injury or a sudden drop-off arrives, he might choose to stop altogether.
Among these, the most plausible is a move abroad, followed by retirement after a final season or two.
Signals to watch
As a football spectator, here’s what to monitor to read Griezmann’s intentions:
- Playing minutes and starting appearances: A sustained drop can hint he’s winding down.
- Public statements: Interviews where he speaks about “next steps,” “future,” or “exploring new horizons.”
- MLS/US club interest: Concrete offers or talks with U.S. teams.
- Contract modifications or buyouts: If Atlético offers flexibility or release clauses.
- Social media / personal life hints: Sometimes players drop clues about what life beyond football looks like.
Why will Griezmann retire matters to fans
It’s not just about watching him play. His retirement impacts:
- Atlético’s plans — Who will replace leadership and production?
- MLS and U.S. leagues — His potential arrival could shift attention and investment.
- France’s legacy — He already left Les Bleus, but his narrative as a generational talent only grows with how he exits.
- Icon status — The timing and style of his retirement will shape how history remembers him.
Final Thoughts
Will Griezmann retire entirely? Not yet. At 34, he still carries fire, scoring milestones, earning a contract extension, and contributing. But the signs — interest, dwindling starts — suggest his twilight years are approaching.
Your call to action? Keep your eyes on the upcoming season. Watch for his minutes, interviews, and transfer rumors. Griezmann may yet surprise us. And when he does decide to step away, fans will want a place to remember every goal, assist, and defining moment.
If you want, I can track news and build a timeline for Griezmann’s retirement future as it unfolds. Do you want me to set that up?
