Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann has revealed that after initially facing problems in his new role at Los Rojiblancos, he has adapted and now relishing it.
Griezmann joined Diego Simeone’s side from La Liga outfit Real Sociedad last summer. He had enjoyed a stellar 2013/14 season at La Real where he scored 20 goals in all competitions.
After enduring a slow start at the Vicente Calderon, which saw him score his debut Atletico Madrid goal in his tenth match, the youngster has found his goalscoring touch and has now scored 17 in all competitions to go with his six assists.
Used to playing on the left wing in his days at the Anoeta, Griezmann admitted that he had difficulties in adapting to his new role behind the striker, but he has grown in his new position and begun to relish it.
“After arriving here, Cholo [Diego Simeone] claimed that he wanted me to sit behind the main striker”, the Frenchman said in an interview with Spanish daily AS.
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“At the beginning it was tricky, but now I’m comfortable in this role. The boss gives me freedom to attack and this is great for my confidence.”
On being asked whether his strike partner Mario Mandzukic is the best that the 23-year-old has had in his career so far, Griezmann admitted that it indeed is the case especially when it comes to his goalscoring return.
“If we’re talking about scoring goals, then yes.
“I like to link up with the main forward. We also get on well too which is a help.”
Griezmann will look to add to his two Champions League goals this season when Atletico Madrid face German outfit Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their round of 16 tie tomorrow.
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