Daijiworld Media Network - Madrid

Madrid, Apr 7: Antoine Griezmann is set for an emotional return to Camp Nou as Atletico Madrid face FC Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-finals, with the French forward determined to end his stint in Spain on a high.

Griezmann, who is expected to join Orlando City at the end of the season, is chasing a long-awaited Champions League triumph with Atletico — a trophy the club has never won despite reaching finals in 2014 and 2016.

The 35-year-old forward, Atletico’s all-time top scorer with 211 goals, last lifted silverware with the club in 2018 when they won the Europa League and UEFA Super Cup. Despite a glittering international career, including winning the 2018 World Cup with France, major domestic honours have largely eluded him at club level.

Griezmann’s earlier spell with Barcelona between 2019 and 2021 proved disappointing, highlighted by the club’s 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the 2020 Champions League and his struggle to adapt alongside Lionel Messi. He returned to Atletico initially on loan before making the move permanent in 2022.

Under coach Diego Simeone, Griezmann has remained a key figure, combining relentless work rate with creative flair. However, with limited minutes this season, his departure signals the end of an era.

“I hope we can do something big,” Griezmann said after Atletico’s dominant performance in the previous round, underlining his desire for a grand finale.

Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, head into the tie as favourites, but Atletico possess the firepower to spring a surprise. Much attention will also be on Julian Alvarez, who has been linked with a potential move to Barcelona and is expected to play a key role.

With emotions running high and stakes even higher, Griezmann will be hoping his return to Camp Nou becomes the first step towards a memorable farewell with Atletico Madrid.