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The arrival of Antoine Griezmann in Major League Soccer has been one of the most talked about moves in international soccer, and on Radio MARCA, within the MARCADOR program, Alfonso Mondelo assessed what this signing means for the American competition. The executive highlighted the sustained growth of the league and the importance of incorporating top-level players.
Mondelo did not hide his satisfaction with the arrival of the French striker, stressing that he is a key figure in modern soccer. He explained that his arrival reinforces the trend of big names choosing MLS as a destination at an important stage of their careers.
Griezmann, a strategic opportunity for MLS
The sporting director explained that the interest in Antoine Griezmann had been around for some time and that his immediate arrival was even considered. "He was a player who was not playing much at Atletico Madrid and it was seen as a good opportunity to bring him in now," he said, although he admitted that his growing prominence at the Spanish club changed the scenario.
In his view, the competitive context at Atletico Madrid, with finals and important competitions at stake, influenced the decision to delay his departure. Even so, Mondelo believes that his arrival in Orlando will be key to raising the level of the league.
An expanding league with global stars
Mondelo insisted that MLS is experiencing the best moment in its history. The presence of figures such as Lionel Messi has been decisive in increasing the global visibility of the competition. "Stadiums are getting smaller wherever he goes and kids want to be like Messi,” he explained of the Argentine’s impact.
He also stressed that the arrival of great stars not only improves the footballing level, but also boosts the structural growth of soccer in the United States. In this regard, he mentioned the historical role of David Beckham as a turning point: "There is an MLS before and after Beckham".
The leader also highlighted the development of local talent, noting that the change in academies has transformed the profile of the American soccer player, who is increasingly oriented towards professionalism from an early age.
The future: World Cup, growth and ambition
Looking ahead, Mondelo was optimistic about the role of the United States in the next World Cup, highlighting the evolution of soccer in the country and the growing connection with fans. He believes that the tournament will be a definitive boost for the sport in North America.
He also argued that MLS no longer needs to "convince" stars to land in the league. "Now it is the players who contact us because they see MLS as the league of the future," he said.
Ultimately, Griezmann's arrival represents another step in the consolidation of a competition that, as Mondelo himself acknowledged, continues to grow at great speed and aims to be among the great leagues on the international scene.
