Thierry Henry left Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann taken aback with an emotional message when the CBS pundit spoke to him after Diego Simeone’s side reached the Champions League semi-finals.
On Tuesday (April 14), Atleti held their nerve to overcome Hansi Flick’s Barcelona side and set up a semi-final against the winner of Arsenal and Sporting CP.
The Madrid club came into the quarter-final second leg with a two-goal advantage over their fellow La Liga outfit, but the evening got off to an awful start when Lamine Yamal netted four minutes in.
By the 24th minute, the tie was level as Ferran Torres struck for the La Liga leaders making it 2-2 on aggregate and 2-0 on the night.
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However, Atletico’s January signing, Ademola Lookman, made it 2-1 on the night (3-2 on aggregate) to ensure Simeone’s side progressed to the final four.
Shortly after the match, veteran forward Griezmann — who is set to join MLS side Orlando City next season — appeared on CBS Sports and discussed the evening’s action with his compatriot Henry.
But this was no ordinary interview, as the former Arsenal star delivered a heartfelt message thanking Griezmann for his contribution to French football. The 35-year-old played 137 times for his country, including being part of the 2018 World Cup-winning side.
"Antoine, I have something to tell you,” Henry said in French.
“Thank you for everything you’ve done for French football, the national team, and simply for football. You’ve given me a lot."
Meanwhile, Simeone also paid homage to the former Barcelona star, describing him as a “genius”.
“We'll realise over time that we've had a football genius here — a player who makes the difference, with experience and personality,” Simeone said.
“Let’s hope God and destiny give him what he's looking for in his time left with us."
Griezmann remained on the pitch and appeared to soak in the atmosphere at the Metropolitano after last night’s game.
“I hope I can help my team-mates to do something beautiful this season, something historic,” he told reporters as he left the stadium.
“Our fans deserve it.
“After the match, I stayed on the pitch with them for several minutes, just enjoying the songs and the atmosphere, which was fantastic. Let’s keep going.”
Atletico return to action on April 18 when they face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final in Seville.
Topics: Antoine Griezmann, Thierry Henry, Atletico Madrid, Champions League, Football, La Liga
Luke Davies