Antoine Griezmann has recently spoke out about Arsenal interest, claiming he would never sign for the North London club
We all know about Arsene Wenger’s notorious ‘Almost signed players’, but one that has gone under the radar a little is Antoine Griezmann, now of Atletico Madrid. Arsenal had the chance to sign him in 2013, with both parties verbally agreeing a move.
However, as it so often has with Arsenal transfers, the clock ticked, and ticked, until eventually Arsene Wenger decided he wouldn’t chase the French prospect. According to the Mirror, Antoine still hasn’t forgotten about this, and the Frenchman says that he’ll never play for Arsenal after it.
For any young French player, being approached by Arsene Wenger is a novelty, and extremely difficult to turn down. At the age of 22, the Real Sociedad prospect would have been excited to work with the Arsenal boss. When the deal fell through, you could imagine how angry Antoine Griezmann must have felt.
He’s never been one to shy away from his emotions, which was shown when his book, ‘Behind the smile’ was announced. The Mirror report that this was where his words on Arsenal were spouted.
"“I waited, I waited and I kept waiting. When there was no news, Eric (Olhats) called (Giles) Grimandi, who said that the manager was still interested in me and to keep waiting.” – Antoine Griezmann in ‘Behind the Smile’ (via the Mirror)"
Here, the talented Frenchman talks about the transfer deadline day in which he was supposed to be joining Arsenal, and how he was left waiting for a large period of time.
"“Finally, a few hours before the market closed, he let us know that Arsenal would not make a move. I don’t like to be told something and for it not to happen.” – Antoine Griezmann in ‘Behind the Smile’ (via the Mirror)"
He then goes on to talk about the moment he was told the bad news, and how devistated he was in that moment.
"“So when Eric told me later that the London club were interested again I told him ‘Forget it, after the blow they gave us’.” – Antoine Griezmann in ‘Behind the Smile (via the Mirror)"
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As an Arsenal fan, it pains me to see that we came close to signing another world beater, but unfortunately it’s not the first time this has happened. Do you think Antoine Griezmann would have reached the heights he’s reaching now if he had joined Arsenal? Have your say in the comments section below!