Barca president Joan Laporta speaks about Griezmann exit, reveals the attempt to sign Neymar

Antoine Griezmann-Barcelona

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has finally spoken about Antoine Griezmann‘s exit during the deadline day of the transfer window.

The Frenchman left the Blaugrana to join his former club Atletico Madrid on loan for two seasons. Los Rojiblancos have the purchase option if he plays 50% of the matches.

Laporta said that the French World Cup winner didn’t fit into Blaugrana’s style of play but lauded his attitude and skills.

The Blaugrana president, when asked about Griezmann’s departure: “I think we all expected more from him, but he gave everything. He didn’t fit in our system; he was not the player we needed. He has always had a very good attitude. I have sent him a message wishing him that everything goes very well.”

 “Griezmann must play 50% of the games that he’s available for Atlético Madrid’s buy option to become mandatory.”

Laporta also revealed that he tried to bring PSG ace Neymar back to the Nou Camp.

The Brazilian superstar’s rumours had been circulating for a while in the past, but a deal never happened.

However, Laporta confirmed that Neymar was eager to return to the Catalan club after it was reported at first that Lionel Messi would sign a new deal with Barca.

As it turned out, the Argentine was forced to leave his boyhood club after Blaugrana failed to register him owing to La Liga‘s salary cap concerns.

The 34-year-old eventually moved to PSG on a free transfer, with Neymar playing a key role behind the transfer.