The images do not deceive. For several weeks, Antoine Griezmann has struggled to see the side of Barcelona. The smile has somewhat disappeared, the minutes on the ground are diminishing and his status falters within the Catalan club. Replacing again Tuesday night against the shock against his former club Atlético Madrid, the world champion entered the 90th minute of play, a sign of a hierarchy that is changing under the orders of Quique Setién. Asked about his management of the Frenchman and under the fire of criticism after failed choices and a drifting team (2-2 against the Colochoneros), the former technician of Betis Seville wanted to accept his decision.
Griezmann thought he could benefit from the change of coach, it is missed
"Antoine is an important player, it is true that it is hard to bring him in so, for a player of his level, he asserts in front of the media eager to know more about the management of the champion of the world, relegated to the end of the bank now. But circumstances forced me to do this. "I could have made another decision, not to let him in, for example, but you still have the hope that a player like him can do a punctual action that will allow you to win the match." Relaunched on the way he intends to manage the French, very far from his best level, Quique Setién does not seem to want to add too much. "Tomorrow (Wednesday), I will speak with him. I'm not going to apologize to him, because it's a decision I have to take, but I'm sure it's a decision that he will understand, because he's a great player, a great professional and a great man."
»READ ALSO - Griezmann repeats: he wants to« finish in the United States »
Since his arrival in Barcelona last summer, Antoine Griezmann is far from giving his full measure. Sweet euphemism. With only 8 goals and 4 assists in La Liga, his record remains far from his usual standards. His relationship with Lionel Messi is not obvious and the attitude of the Argentinian does not reveal a hope for brighter days. The 29-year-old Frenchman, who was delighted to shine with Barça, also expected better with the change of coach Valverde-Setién in mid-January, to finally give full satisfaction and tackle the final rush in the best provisions. It is currently missed in large widths. Barça flounders, lets Real Madrid slip into the title race and Antoine Griezmann is moping.
»READ ALSO - Tops / Flops FC Barcelona-Atlético Madrid: Carrasco, poison of a too feverish Barça
Read also
- Liga calendar