Atlético Madrid’s decision to limit Antoine Griezmann’s playing time could cost them in the long run

Antoine Griezmann has only played an episodic role this season at Atlético Madrid, mostly coming off the bench for the final 30 minutes of a given game.

This is because according to the deal agreed with Barcelona last season, Los Colchoneros have to purchase the 31-year-old permanently for €40m if he plays at least 50% of the minutes he is available for.

However, as pointed out by Mundo Deportivo, it appears as though Atlético Madrid’s stubbornness to avoid paying the fee could come back to bite them in the long run.

Despite playing more or less 30 minutes a game, Griezmann is the club’s second top scorer this season. He is only behind Álvaro Morata, who is a regular starter. They have lost key games against Villarreal and Bayer Leverkusen and find themselves eight points behind league leaders Real Madrid already.

Even though he is one of the best performing and the club’s highest paid player, Atlético Madrid are not willing to risk paying the €40m fee to Barcelona. With the club currently only in the Europa League positions in La Liga, their decision to not play Griezmann could cost them in their revenue at the end of the season.

GSFN

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