From eating at the same table as Messi and Ronaldo to 18th in the world
Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann has been made to pay for his dismal form this year with a notable drop in the final list for the Ballon d'Or.
"He is a clear contender to the Ballon d'Or. He is at the same level as Ronaldo and Messi," were some of the kind words aimed at the Frenchman last year. Atletico's top scorer, Champions League and Euro 2016 finalist... The striker finished third after 'France Football' took it to a vote.
"I want to eat at Messi and Ronaldo's table," the player said. "I want to get as close as possible to their level and win titles. My objective is to be among the best." His 2016/17 season was nothing special and 2017 saw him far from his best, despite banging in 29 goals.
He has missed having a strike partner at Atletico, while his inconsistent form and constant hints at Manchester United and PSG have affected the performances of a striker who, when at his best, is virtually unstoppable.
A year after the last Ballon d'Or ceremony, Griezmann has finished 18th in the world. For 2018, Simeone is hoping to have the best Griezmann back, the player who sat at the same table as Messi and Ronaldo.