Griezmann Says Heart With Barcelona After Ugly Atletico Madrid Exit

Antoine Griezmann on Monday said he couldn't wait to make his Barcelona debut and that his heart was with the team as he tries to move on from a sour exit from Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid. Antoine Griezmann's 120 million euros (USD 135 million) transfer was contested by Atletico Madrid, who insisted Barcelona should have paid a higher price for the World Cup-winning French striker. But he told media in Tokyo: "I am very happy about the outcome of my transfer. I am very eager to play as soon as possible."

"I wish Atletico players all the best of luck. I am focused on giving my all so that Barca will deliver good results," he said in Spanish through a translator.

Barcelona's offer triggered Griezmann's release clause but Atletico said the Catalan club negotiated the deal before the buy-out price dropped from 200 million euros at the start of July.