The idea of Miles Robinson leaving Atlanta is becoming closer to reality.
Atlanta United defender and captain Miles Robinson is drawing interest from Dutch giants PSV amid a contract stalemate.
Robinson, 26, has spent the last seven years in Atlanta since becoming the club’s first ever SuperDraft selection. Picked second overall by Atlanta in their inaugural season, Robinson has since developed into one the league’s elite defenders and a full U.S international.
Initially, Robinson struggled to establish himself in Atlanta, moving on loan twice in his first two seasons. Following his loan spells, Robinson’s game finally talents really emerged on the field. The defender has made 122 appearances since 2019, claiming the captain’s armband in the process. All while being named to the MLS Best IX in 2019 and 2021.
In 2022, Robinson could not go for a third Best IX selection as the defender tore his Achilles tendon, ending his season after 17 games.
For the United States Men’s National Team, Robinson made his debut in 2019 and by 2021 had established himself as a first-choice center back. Had he been fit, he would have featured heavily at the 2022 World Cup.
End of an Era
It would be cruel for the front office to watch the first true Atlanta United developed product leave for nothing, but that is the reality of the situation.
Robinson will find himself out of contract at the end of the season, allowing him to sign anywhere as a free agent. Atlanta has offered Robinson a new contract which the player has not accepted.
The likely stalemate boils down to Atlanta not offering Robinson a contract as a Designated Player. There is now a higher precedent for Robinson to refer to in these negotiations. Nashville SC’s Walker Zimmerman resigned with his club as a DP, giving him much higher earning potential.
If Atlanta isn’t willing to meet those demands, we will certainly watch Robinson across the Atlantic in 2024.