'We will miss him' – Simeone sad to say goodbye to Griezmann

Diego Simeone is preparing to give "special" Antoine Griezmann a fitting send-off from Atletico Madrid in his final home game for the club.

Atletico will host Girona as they step out at the Metropolitano for the last time in 2025-26, with Griezmann set to say farewell ahead of his move to Orlando City SC at the end of the campaign.

The Frenchman leaves the club as Atleti's all-time top scorer (212 goals). Sunday's game will also mark his 500th for the club.

Griezmann has scored 74 goals in 164 appearances for Atletico at the Metropolitano in all competitions, at least 32 more than any other player for the club at this venue (Angel Correa, 42).

Asked what his best moment with Griezmann has been, Simeone told reporters: "There isn't just one moment that stands out in a relationship like this.

"Without ever crossing that line... Coach, friendship... We have a very close relationship with his family. He came here young, grew in an extraordinary way, doing a fantastic job.

"He reached the greatest place for a player, which is winning a World Cup. He's Atletico's all-time leading scorer. He has the enviable respect of all his team-mates. I don't have just one memory with him.

"I remember when he came to tell me about his plans before leaving for Barcelona; it was a moment that had to be shared. It was good to understand what happened later. When he came back, it was a moment of joy, happiness; we knew a genius was returning. We will miss him.

"I would like him to be remembered for who he is. A good person, a noble guy, a responsible guy who was always there for Atletico. He had the humility to come back and win back the fans who, out of love for the club, were angry. I think he would want to be remembered as the person he is."

And when questioned whether Griezmann was irreplaceable, Simeone added: "It's clear there won't be another like Griezmann.

"[He's] not irreplaceable; nobody is irreplaceable in life. But he is a special player. Beyond our sporting relationship, we've had a lovely family relationship."

Atletico have already secured Champions League football for next season, but could still finish as high as third if results go their way.

Girona, meanwhile, are still in danger of being relegated. After a six-game winless streak, they sit 15th, just one point above the drop zone, with two games left.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Atletico Madrid – Alexander Sorloth

Sorloth has scored five goals in seven LaLiga appearances against Girona.

Only against Rayo Vallecano and Real Sociedad (seven each) has he netted more in the competition (he also has five against Barcelona).

Girona – Cristhian Stuani

Stuani has scored three goals in 16 LaLiga matches against Atletico, but none in his seven away visits.

Only against Valencia (eight) has the Uruguayan played more away games without scoring in the competition.