For years, Orlando City has been one of Major League Soccer’s most consistent clubs. The Lions have regularly competed for playoff spots, developed talented players, and built one of the league’s best home-field atmospheres at Inter&Co Stadium. But despite their consistency, the one accomplishment that has continued to elude them is lifting the MLS Cup.
That may be about to change.
The arrival of Antoine Griezmann is arguably the biggest signing in Orlando City history. The 2018 FIFA World Cup champion officially joined the club in July after leaving Atlético Madrid, bringing with him nearly two decades of elite European experience and a winning mentality that few MLS clubs can match.
Griezmann isn’t the type of superstar who relies solely on athleticism. Even at 35 years old, his intelligence, movement, passing vision, and finishing ability remain world-class. Throughout his career, he has proven capable of scoring goals while also creating opportunities for teammates, making him the ideal centerpiece for Orlando’s attack.
His impact extends beyond statistics.
Championship teams are often defined by leadership, and Griezmann has played in some of the biggest matches in world football. From World Cup finals to UEFA Champions League knockout rounds and title races in Spain, he understands what it takes to perform under pressure. That experience could prove invaluable for a relatively young Orlando squad looking to take the next step.
Another factor is the confidence his signing gives the entire organization. Big-name players attract attention, raise expectations, and often elevate the performances of everyone around them. Opposing defenses can no longer focus on shutting down just one attacking option, opening space for Orlando’s other playmakers to thrive.
The Eastern Conference remains highly competitive. Clubs like Inter Miami, Nashville SC, New England Revolution, Chicago Fire and of course Orlando City rival New York City FC continue to boast talented rosters capable of making deep playoff runs. Orlando will still need consistency, defensive organization, and good health throughout the second half of the season if it hopes to compete with the league’s elite.
Still, Griezmann changes the conversation. So far in the 2 games he has been with the team he had 1 goal on 3 shots and an 8.3 player rating in a 4-0 win against San Jose. Then got an all important 1-0 win against top seeded Nashville SC.
Instead of asking whether Orlando City can qualify for the playoffs, the question becomes whether they can make a serious run at the MLS Cup. His arrival instantly raises the club’s ceiling and gives the Lions a player capable of deciding matches in crucial moments.
There are no guarantees in Major League Soccer, where the playoffs often produce surprises. But if Griezmann quickly builds chemistry with his teammates and Orlando continues to improve defensively, the Lions have every reason to believe they can compete for the biggest prize in American soccer.
For the first time in club history, Orlando City doesn’t simply have playoff aspirations—they have a legitimate opportunity to chase an MLS Cup championship. And with Antoine Griezmann wearing purple, that dream suddenly feels far more attainable.