Griezmann's 'sadness' at Lucas Hernandez exit & a possible domino effect

Griezmann's 'sadness' at Lucas Hernandez exit & a possible domino effect

Griezmann, temporada complicada
Griezmann, temporada complicada | sport

Griezmann's 'sadness' at Lucas exit & a possible domino effect

Despite Atletico Madrid wanting to renew his contract, Lucas Hernandez rejected their advances in favour of a move to German side Bayern Munich. 

Antoine Griezmann, his teammate for club and country, has revealed his "sadness" at Lucas' exit in a post on social media, wishing him "the best" at this new club. The versatile defender will not play for Atletico again this season as he undergoes surgery on a knee injury. 

Atletico star Griezmann loses a friend, teammate and a future leader of the Rojiblanco defence. It's a departure which may not be the last in Madrid this year. 

Domino effect?

Lucas' move could have a direct affect on the squad. With his transfer, Atletico could have a big problem. In addition, Filipe Luis and captain Diego Godin could both leave this summer, leaving Diego Simeone without the majority of the defenders that have served him so well. Both into their 30s, they're considering their futures. 

If they both leave, Atletico will have a complicated summer ahead of them. They will have to sign really well to keep up with Europe's elite. 

But things may not stop there. The French international's exit hand the likely departure could have a direct effect on Griezmann. He is sad to see Lucas go and if Godin follows he would have a decision to make. Along with Simeone, close friend Godin was one of the main reasons he stayed last summer. 

A few exits could see Griezmann leave. The France star is already disappointed with Atletico's performances this season. Out of the Copa del Rey and the Champions League, they are 10 points back from Barcelona at the top of La Liga.