Barcelona have signed Antoine Griezmann from Ateltico Madrid for €120m after paying the Frenchman’s release clause on two weeks ago.
Speaking to media in a press conference, Griezmann has praised his new team-mates and claims he has a great relationship with them. But, Barca superstar, Lionel Messi, has not called him yet.
“The truth is it started badly because they nutmegged me twice in my first rondo. Luckily I have learned the lesson. Messi has not called me yet, but Suarez did. He congratulated me and welcomed me.” Griezmann said.
“The group has welcomed me and I am happy to share a dressing room with them. Hopefully I can help in the best way possible.” Griezmann added.
Before releasing their superstar, Atletico have opened disciplinary proceedings against Griezmann that could result in a fine after he failed to turn up for training. The 28-year-old striker did not show up at the club’s Majadahonda headquarters on Sunday evening and did not travel with the rest of the squad to San Rafael de los Angeles northwest of the Spanish capital.
Grizmann claims he had a great relationship with former his head coach Diego Simeone. He also said he had a great relationship with former his team-mates at Wanda Metropolitano.
“I did everything as well as possible with respect to Diego Simeone, my former team-mates and Atletico Madrid to leave on good terms,” Griezmann said.
“It’s an issue for them. I am calm and all that matters is starting well with Barcelona, which is the most important thing.
“I heard about it [the complaint]. It’s a club where I gave my all. I’m very calm. The only thing that matters to me right now is understanding the coach’s tactics, getting on with my team-mates and enjoying football.
“Our relationship was more than a coach and a player, we’re like family. I got on very well with him. He was important for what I did on the pitch and for my private life. I owe him a lot and I love him a lot. Our relationship will carry on, even after retirement.” he added.
Griezmann had been close to signing for the Catalan club last summer, but changed his mind and announced his decision to stay at the club in a documentary aired at the start of the World Cup.
