Griezmann understands Atletico fans

Antoine Griezmann understands why Atletico Madrid supporters were anxious about his future amid continued strong speculation linking the striker to Barcelona.

Griezmann announced his intention to stay at Atletico in a televised documentary prior to France's first game at the World Cup.

The forward then confirmed his plans to remain with the LaLiga side for the 2018-19 season by extending his contract at the Wanda Metropolitano by a further year, through to 2023.

Barcelona have reportedly tried to sign Griezmann two years in a row but the Catalan giants have been unable to tempt him away from Atletico.

And Greizmann said his close connection with the club is the reason he has decided to stay.

"We are family and that is evident in the pitch, we all fight for the same goal," Griezmann told Atletico's official website. 

"I always felt loved by everybody, and that's very important for me. We are a very closely-knit team.

"I understand that some fans could get nervous due to uncertainty. It's logical. But I can only have words of thanks for our fans, they are always supporting me and I try to give those signs of affection them back giving my best in the pitch.

"There's nothing that excites me more than hearing them singing my song in the Wanda Metropolitano, it's incredible."

Griezmann, top goalscorer at Euro 2016, is now turning his attention to ensuring Europa League champions Atleti have a bright future.

"I'm very happy and convinced we'll accomplish great things together," Greizmann added. "This past season, I won my first European title with the club, which was something I had been really trying to achieve. Now, my only wish is to keep on competing in pursuit of more success.

"Since I arrived at the club we have grown so much. We have a brand new stadium which has been praised by everybody and which allows us to empower the growth of the last years. I love the project we are creating, with great players. I thank the big effort the club are doing.

"Miguel Angel Gil [Atletico Madrid CEO] told me his ideas for the next seasons and I got really excited. The project is incredible.”