Antoine Griezmann was a player getting written off last season. Only seven goals and assists combined in La Liga, a messy contract situation, and things were looking very bleak for the Frenchman. Even at the start of this season, he had to face difficulties. He was limited to 30-minute substitute appearances so that Atlético Madrid could avoid paying Barcelona a €40m clause in his loan deal.
He worked past that, however, and has had one of the best comeback seasons in recent times. With 15 goals and 15 assists in the league, his all-round game has been excellent. He has arguably been the La Liga player of the season.
As important as he has been for Atlético, he was also instrumental in the mid-season World Cup, helping France to reach the final, where they fell just short. His performances were heralded as brilliant worldwide and gave him the platform to which he has risen, as back amongst the best players in the world.
Japtej Ghura | GSFN
