Antoine Griezmann has admitted he still becomes the “little boy” dreaming of Champions League glory before every season, as he prepares for what could be his final chance to win the competition with Atletico Madrid. The 35-year-old France forward will leave the club at the end of the season to move to Major League Soccer, but is desperate to lift the trophy before he departs.
Griezmann, who played in and missed a penalty in the 2016 Champions League final, now faces Arsenal in the semi-finals. “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,” he said. “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.”
Reflecting on his decision to leave, Griezmann insisted he has no regrets but is determined to grasp his last opportunity. “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,” he added. “I’m focused on tomorrow’s game, on what my teammates will need. I’m not thinking about the games I have left.”
The veteran forward also compared his current mindset to that of 2016, saying: “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.”
