Antoine Greizmann: I want to match Messi and Ronaldo

Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann says he wants to get as close as possible to the level of multiple Ballon d'Or winners Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Griezmann has now scored 44 goals in 75 La Liga appearances for Atletico Madrid after joining from Real Sociedad two years ago.

The forward had a spectacular Euro 2016, emerging as the clear contender for the Golden Boot with six goals.

"I want to eat at their table," said Griezmann. "I want to get as close as possible to their level and win titles. My objective is to be among the best."

Griezmann didn't face the best of summers as Atletico lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League final, before hosts France were beaten by Portugal in extra time in the final of Euro 2016.

"Two finals where we were so close to our target and close to getting the trophy," he added. "It just wasn't the time. But I am not going to stop there. I will keep working to play in a final and win. In fact, I am more determined to win."

Greizmann admitted he felt sadder at having lost the Champions League final against Real Madrid than the Euro 2016 final, with his country France on home soil to Portugal. The Golden Boot winner also revealed that former England International and Manchester United star, David Beckham was his biggest idol during childhood. Beckham has also been the influence of Greizmann’s long sleeves jersey and his number 7.

But regardless of all the transfer rumours that were revolving around him, the Frenchman ended the speculation about his future after signing a new five-year contract at the Vincente Calderon in June.

"My teammates, my coach, the outdoors life, my little family are very happy to be there," he said. "We live well. Personally, it is a club that can bring titles. I really have no desire to go to another club.

"I want to win titles with Atletico. It's not a personal mission to win La Liga but I want it very badly. We have strong desire to win both La Liga and the Champions League and I am going to give my all to help my team to succeed. This season I hope we will be better more than ever."

The Frenchman is now one of the final three nominees for the UEFA European Player of the Year and could even be a surprising contender for the Ballon d'Or.

Greizmann was clearly missed by Atletico Madrid in their La Liga opener after drawing 1-1 with newly promoted Alaves. The Rojiblancos failed to create chances and missed them when they had the opportunity. The only goal for Atletico came from a Kevin Gameiro penalty, but a late strike from in the 95^th minute denied the Champions League runners-up to grab all the three points.

Atletico will have to wait for Greizmann to come out of suspension if they want to score more goals and earn points. But despite experiencing a double heartbreak last season, Antoine Greizmann has much to look forward to in the present one.