Griezmann braces for 'emotional Sociedad reunion' as Atletico chase Copa glory

The Atleti forward, who is expected to join Orlando City at the end of the 2026 La Liga season, said he is focused on enjoying the occasion rather than dwelling on what lies ahead.

"I'm soaking it all in and enjoying it a lot," Griezmann said. "I'm excited, eager, and happy. I'm not thinking about whether this is my last final here. It's a very important match, a final that very few players get to experience."

Griezmann has been key to Atletico's run, scoring five goals in the competition so far. The Frenchman came through the academy at Real Sociedad before making his move to Madrid in 2014, and he admitted the reunion adds extra emotion.

"I try not to think too much about it because I get very emotional, and I want to stay focused," he said. "But I owe them a lot. They gave me an opportunity when doors were closed in France."

Atleti head into the final with confidence after a strong European performance, and manager Diego Simeone made it clear his players must quickly refocus.

"The recent win put us in a good place, but now we are back down to earth," Simeone said. "That's what matters. We know how difficult this final will be."

Real Sociedad, under coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, have exceeded expectations to reach the showpiece. The manager praised his team's steady progress.

"Who would have thought months ago we would be in a final?" Matarazzo said. "We don't set limits. We work every day to improve, and that has brought us here."

With emotion, history, and silverware on the line, all eyes will be on Griezmann as he faces his past in one of Spain's biggest fixtures at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville today.