Antoine Griezmann has admitted he still becomes the “little boy” dreaming of Champions League glory before every season. The Atletico Madrid veteran, 35, will leave the club at the end of the season to move to Major League Soccer but is still desperate to lift the trophy before he goes.
The France superstar has never won the Champions League, having played and missed a penalty in the 2016 final. Now he has one last shot at the glory he dreamed of all those years ago.
“Every time we start a Champions League campaign, you can see yourself lifting the trophy. Every little boy, every child in their bedroom does the same,” Griezmann said. “The Champions League is always different. What has helped me is that I've always wanted to play in it since I was a child. I'm not much for talking to young players, but rather for setting an example.
“Approaching the match with enthusiasm, joy... And during the match, I offer tactical or technical guidance where I can help. When to slow down or speed up. That's where I help most. Koke is more about talking and motivating.
“Every time we start the Champions League, you obviously see yourself lifting the trophy, and every team or player dreams of it. We're two games away, and tomorrow we need to be tactically and defensively sound and continue the same level we showed in the second half at home.”
Griezmann insists he has no regrets about deciding to leave but is determined to grasp one last chance. He added: “I’m looking forward to the match. It’s a great experience to play in and enjoy. We hope the level of play will be the same as in the second half.
“I was always clear, my idea was to stay here because incredible things could be done. Here we are, with the chance of another final. And the team knows it. I’m focused on tomorrow’s game, on what my teammates will need. I’m not thinking about the games I have left. I’m just focused on being fresh and having good legs.
“That final in 2016 was very different. I was under a lot of stress. Everything was happening at a very fast pace, and I didn't know when to slow down. Now I'm more well-rounded and calmer. I approach matches with more composure and joy. These are moments you think will come back, and then they don't. Playing in a semi-final isn't for everyone.”
