On paper, it has been a strong tournament for Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann. So far he has secured three goals, two assists and a World Cup Final. However, the French man has attracted some unsavory attention too.
Days before France began their World Cup campaign, Griezmann starred in a bizarre documentary to announce his decision on whether or not he would join Barcelona. He eventually chose to stay in the Spanish capital. Then during France's first game against Australia, he was visibly upset at being taken off and scolded by manager Didier Deschamps after the game.
Antoine is our attacking leader and he will remain so, but he must do more and he is aware of that. Players are never happy when they are taken off but he was short of his best and the players who came on instead of him did a good job.
Speaking to on the Second Captains Podcast after France's semi-final victory over Belguim, French journalist Philippe Auclair was also critical of the 27-year-old: "Griezmann is one of the few players, I would qualify his performance. I thought he was very, very disappointing. I knew Deschamps loves what he contributes defensively to the game and his movement is very clever but he is not well at the moment. I don't think he is well in his head, by the way."
The criticism seems to be something the French squad are well aware of. Earlier in the tournament Paul Pogba referenced it and reminded the press of his team-mate's award-winning Euro 2016 performance. 'As I told you before the World Cup, don't touch my Grizou. You have forgotten the Euro. Don't touch my Grizou.'
Griezmann has formed a front three with Kylian Mbappé and Olivier Giroud for France. Against Belguim his output was mixed. From six shots he only hit the target once and only registered one dribble in the entire game, compared to Mbappe's seven. However, his assist means only Harry Kane created more goals this tournament (6.) Griezmann still has a chance to cast aside the doubters and cement his legacy, with a World Cup final against Croatia beckoning this Sunday.
