Why Griezmann Walks Away Early From Atletico’s Team Photos
REUTERS/David Mdzinarishvili
French superstar Antoine Griezmann has been experiencing a serious drop in form, and it has also had its bearing for Atletico Madrid, with the Spanish club lacking the intensity to kill games off.
Diego Simeone’s men face the serious threat of being knocked out of the UEFA Champions League in the Group stage itself, especially after performing so well in the past couple of seasons. Right from the start of the summer, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upholding their transfer ban, Atletico have failed to gain a strong hold. Only one aspect was in their favour, and that was Griezmann staying put.
The Frenchman had garnered serious interest from to European clubs after dictating the pitch for Atletico in the past few seasons. But the 26-year-old decided to stay and sign a new contract after the ban ruling. Since then, it hasn’t gone well for the star player, as lack of goals has been a major concern. His manager too, went on to claim that Griezmann is currently confused, with his confidence having taken a hit, and he needs to be given time.
The Atletico forward, in recent times, has been seen walking away early from team photos taken before matches. It was witnessed against Deportivo La Coruna. Even against Celta Vigo weeks earlier, a similar instance was seen, with the confusion surrounding as to why he he has been doing so leaving many fans in doubt.
But according to Spanish outlet Marca, it is nothing major. The established French international has been cited as being really eager right from the word go to keep the focus and score a goal even before the whistle has blown for the start. With his form on the downwards, anxiety is stated to be one of the reasons for such behaviour.
For now, Diego Simeone will be hoping for January to arrive quickly, and also be wanting the likes of new arrivals in Vitolo and Diego Costa to fire from the word go and link up well with the Frenchman. The Spanish duo are yet to feature for the club because of the transfer ban.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.