Barcelona fans were shocked when Antoine Griezmann returned to Atletico Madrid in the final hours of the last summer transfer window. President Joan Laporta, along with then-coach Ronald Koeman, decided that it would be better to let the French international join his former side on loan in order to save heavily on wages.
While that was not enough to keep Lionel Messi, it did allow for many more signings ever since. Griezmann’s departure was met with mixed emotions with many believing that the forward struggled to fit in the Barca system, especially under Koeman. While Xavi Hernandez’s arrival has improved the squad tremendously, no one knows whether Griezmann will find success at the Nou Camp if he returns.
Barcelona must face the Antoine Griezmann dilemma
Fichajes claims that the Spanish giants have three options in regards to their 120 million euro signing. The convenient one is that the world cup winner remains at the Wanda Metropolitano after Atletico pays the 40 million euro fee. This could potentially be negotiated for a lower amount if Saul Niguez is added to the mix.
The next option is a return to Camp Nou where Xavi Hernandez could possibly work his magic to help Griezmann find success. Xavi likes to press heavily while also maintaining a high defensive work rate, and this is where the Frenchman could shine.
If a potential return does fail to yield success then the Catalans can also look to sell him to a Premier League side. Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have all previously shown interest in the striker and a possible deal for around 40 million euros could happen.
It remains to be seen what Diego Simeone decides in regards to Griezmann but Barca seems to have already moved on after securing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has now scored 5 goals in 6 matches.
What should Barcelona do with Antoine Griezmann?