Griezmann Reveals Reasons For Shunning Barcelona

By Joshua Walters

Antoine Griezmann has revealed the reason he did not sign for Barcelona last summer, and says he did not want to play under Lionel Messi's shadow.

The Atletico Madrid kingpin was close to signing for the Catalan club in the last transfer window, but turned down the move to remain with the Madrid club where he is a fan favourite.

“Being second to Messi may have influenced my decision, " said the player who played a key part in France in winning the Russia 2018 World Cup to Canal Plus.

“It was difficult to refuse Barcelona’s offer, in fact it was very difficult. They made it clear they wanted me, they called me, they sent me messages…it was pressures."

“But then you also have the players, you have your family and the club where you already are an important player, who have promised to build around you."

“Atleti showed they wanted me, they told me how important I was, how they increased my salary, the players and coach talked to me and explained everything."

“Everything was done to persuade me not to leave, and I would have spoken to my wife at 3 am to talk about it – but I made the right decision.”