Thiago Almada: The Argentine Talisman Who Can Break Records in MLS

Argentina's midfielder Thiago Almada celebrates after scoring a goal during the friendly football match between Argentina and Panama at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, on March 23, 2023. (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA / AFP) (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA/AFP via Getty Images)
Argentina's midfielder Thiago Almada celebrates after scoring a goal during the friendly football match between Argentina and Panama at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, on March 23, 2023. (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA / AFP) (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA/AFP via Getty Images)

In the world of soccer, talents shine as rising stars, and Thiago Almada of Atlanta United is one such star who is quickly becoming a legend in his own right. With a remarkable performance in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the honor of being part of the Argentine national team that clinched the 2022 World Cup, Almada is in the spotlight, and rightfully so.

Atlanta United’s President, Garth Lagerway, doesn’t hold back his praise when it comes to Almada. He believes that this young talent deserves a record transfer fee in MLS, a bold statement considering the league’s history. However, when we look at Almada’s performance, it becomes clear that this recognition is well-founded.

With 10 goals and 14 assists in a single season, Almada firmly places himself in the conversation for the league’s MVP award. His undeniable skill on the field and his ability to make a difference for his team are evident in every match. He is a driving force for Atlanta United in 2023, and his value is indisputable.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 16: Thiago Almada #10 of Atlanta United battles against Tomás Avilés #6 of Inter Miami CF during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Michael Zarrilli/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 16: Thiago Almada #10 of Atlanta United battles against Tomás Avilés #6 of Inter Miami CF during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Michael Zarrilli/Getty Images)

The fact that Atlanta United has kept a Designated Player (DP) slot open for Almada signifies the club’s commitment to keeping him around. DPs are players who receive salaries that exceed the traditional limits of MLS, and this openness is a sign of recognition of Almada’s talent and his potential to further elevate the league.

Carlos Bocanegra, Atlanta United’s Technical Director, understands that Almada has ambitions to play in Europe, but he also values his current presence in the team. The club’s willingness to support Almada’s aspirations is admirable and shows that Atlanta United seeks to build a trusting relationship with its players.

It is evident that Almada is a gem in South American soccer, and European clubs have their eyes on him. Ajax’s interest at the end of the transfer window is just further confirmation of his potential and promising trajectory.

Thiago Almada is a player who deserves all the recognition he is receiving. His on-field ability, his success in the World Cup, and the impact he has on MLS place him in a unique position. Garth Lagerway may be right in believing that Almada can break records in MLS, and soccer fans worldwide are certainly looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this rising Argentine talent.