Antoine Griezmann arrives at Barcelona insisting he has nothing to apologise for.
The €120m signing from Atletico Madrid was unveiled by Barcelona on Sunday.
The Frenchman said in a documentary a year ago that he would be staying at Atletico Madrid – and there’s allegations from his former club that Barcelona should pay more than his release clause.
“[Regarding the documentary] If I have to say sorry, I’ll do it on the pitch,” said Griezmann at his press conference.
“It’s [the place] where I best do the talking.”
The Frenchman, unveiled in his new No.17 shirt, was keen to show his gratitude to his previous employers and key people in his life.
“I would like to thank Real Sociedad who gave me my first professional contract,” he went on.
“I would like to thank Enrique Cerezo, Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid and all my teammates that helped me become the player I’ve become for my club and country.
“It’s always hard to leave a place, a home, where you feel comfortable, and where you have family, friends and colleagues.
“I only have admiration and respect or that club. I gave everything on the field from beginning to the end.”
“Thanks to Barcelona for giving me this opportunity. I accept the challenge and I am excited to be here.”
Looking at his new teammates, Philippe Coutinho and Lionel Messi came in for some special mentions.
“What makes me happiest is being able to share some maté with him [Messi],” Greizmann said. “It’s going to be a great joy to be by his side.
“All players in the squad are important, we want to have the best players at the club and to compete against each other.
“It’s true that during the transfer window agents exert pressure, but we know what Coutinho’s ability is, what he can contribute and the vision the coach and club have for him.
“Coutinho has something special, Arthur sees the game well and Malcom can hurt teams on the wing. They are all good players.”
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