Ex-Atletico players preparing for life without Antoine Griezmann

The Argentine Rubén 'Ratón' Ayala, who played for Atletico Madrid between 1973 and 1989, has spoken about Antoine Griezmann's suggestion that he could leave for Manchester United, calling for Edinson Cavani to come in as his replacement if he does go to England. 

"If he goes, I would like Cavani because he's a guy that fights, that doesn't give up on any ball, is good in the air, can take free-kicks..." the former footballer said to EFE while in Madrid for the Legends Final which will close the Vicente Calderon on Sunday. 

Ayala, born in Santa Fe in 1950, did add that it would be "a shame" if Griezmann did leave, though: "It would be shame because we have seen what he is capable of. He runs, fights and doesn't give anything up. He's in the box and he's also defending.

"There are very few players capable of that. It would be a blow if he left, but if Atletico let him go because they're getting good money, then it would be welcome." 

José Navarro, Atletico goalkeeper between 1978 and 1982, said on Griezmann's possible departure to English football that "if he goes than another player will come."

Speaking to EFE, he added: "Without doubt he's a great player. In my era there was Futre, who I don't know if he was close to Griezmann. He's not a great goalscorer, but he's a player who works a lot, without doubt, and it would be good if he's at Atletico. 

"But if he wants to go because he'll be paid more, Atletico have a wage ceiling. If he goes, though, another good player will come in."