Fernando Torres has advised his teammate Antoine Griezmannto stay put at the Vincente Calderon despite the French striker having “the world in his hands.”
The Atletico Madrid pair have a similar story. Torres was a brilliant striker in his prime at the same club. He excelled and clubs were all over him. He eventually agreed to move for a record fee to Anfield.
Whilst with Liverpool, he continued his brilliant performance, impressing the English fans from his debut season. However, things went sour as he could not continue to live up to expectations. His stay at Chelsea dented his career though there were one or two moments of brilliance.
Griezmann has a flurry of top clubs begging for his signature since last year due to his sterling displays. Torres has advised that Griezmannremain at the club and realize his potential.
“Where are you going to go to improve what you have in Atletico? Not many places in the world. I hope he can stay with us forever,” Torres said.
The French international is one of the most sought after strikers in Europe. He scored his 24th in the slim victory over their English opposition in the Champions League this week. Manchester United, Man City, PSG and a host of others have been linked with him.
“That’s normal when young players become one of the best in the world, everyone wants to sign them. You can go to many other places in the world and they cannot offer what Atletico can offer you right now: competing in the league, competing in the Champions League, one of the most respected teams in Europe – so there is no reason to leave,” Torres added.
In addition, Torres said he left the Reds when the club sold its best players and allowed Rafa Benitez leave. He claimed he had everything at Anfield but since the management were not ambitious and truthful, he had to leave. Though Torres won the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup with the Blues, he did not give a commanding contribution like he did elsewhere.