Griezmann turns Times Square purple as MLS debut approaches
The former Atlético Madrid player hit New York City with his new team, Orlando City and turned the iconic Times square purple.
With a little more than two days left before the world stops for the Spain–Argentina World Cup final, New York City is already buzzing. The global spotlight is fixed on the city that never sleeps — but for one afternoon, Antoine Griezmann managed to pull those spotlights away from the World Cup and onto himself.
The French star strolled through Times Square wearing the colors of his new club, Orlando City, instantly drawing crowds and cameras in one of the most recognizable places on Earth.
Times Square goes purple for Orlando City
Times Square — named after the New York Times, whose headquarters once stood there — is famous for its massive digital billboards that run ads around the clock. Orlando City chose this iconic location to unveil Griezmann once again, splashing his image across the giant screens.
The forward also visited the MLS headquarters in New York, where he gave an interview and posed for photos with the city’s skyscrapers behind him. His trip coincides with Fantastics Fest, a sports‑fan festival running from Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19, the same weekend as the 2026 World Cup final.
Griezmann embraces his American dream
Griezmann has never hidden his love for the United States. During his previous stint at Atlético Madrid, he constantly talked about his passion for the NBA, sneaking away to catch games whenever he could.
He’s already played two friendlies with Orlando City — and scored in both. His official MLS debut is set for Tuesday, July 21, when Orlando returns to league action and Griezmann can finally step onto the field as a full‑fledged MLS player.
Orlando face San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park, San Jose on Tuesday July 21 with kick-off scheduled for at 7:30 p.m. PDT / 10:30 p.m. EDT. Viewers in the US can follow the game on Apple TV.
Griezmann’s first MLS home game will be on Saturday July 25, when Nashville SC are guests at Inter&Co Stadium.
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returns to MLS, the date on which the French striker will be able to make his official debut for his new club.
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