Cannot comment about Spain, but from a German perspective, have to disagree. Rooney was the english player over here. Often regarded as the number three in the world behind the two freaks, when he (and United) were at the peak of their powers.
Dont think Griezmann comes quite close to that reputation, at least not outside of Spain. Still had a glorious career and is a very good player, I kind of like the Ballack comparison, reputation wise.
I don't think this comparison is right at all, really. Rooney is a comfortable tier higher in recognition than Griezmann was or will be.
Yeah, I was trying to find the right player but I'd either have someone like Rooney who was a bit better or someone like Milner who was a bit worse. I guess my point was that he will be remembered less outside of his league/country than he will within them.