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Thiago Almada’s Saga: Between Plans and Uncertainties at Atlanta United

By Arthur Fernandes

CINCINNATI, OHIO - OCTOBER 21: Thiago Almada #10 of Atlanta United plays during the first half of a MLS soccer match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on October 21, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - OCTOBER 21: Thiago Almada #10 of Atlanta United plays during the first half of a MLS soccer match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on October 21, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) /
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The future of the talented Argentine player Thiago Almada at Atlanta United continues to be the focus of speculation and plans, as revealed by the club’s vice president and technical director, Carlos Bocanegra. In an end-of-year press conference, Bocanegra shared Atlanta United’s plans for the 2024 season, emphasizing the intention to have Almada back but warning that “things can change.”

Uncertainty permeates the Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape, with Almada, 22, emerging as a bright star. His remarkable contribution of 30 goals (11g/19a) last season placed him in the spotlight, earning him the title of MLS Young Player of the Year in 2023. However, the dilemma lies in the offers that may arise during the transfer windows.

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Bocanegra highlights the importance of Almada’s decision, mentioning the possibility of negotiations in December or January. The key question is whether the player will decide to stay, considering Atlanta United’s commitment to having him back. The vice president emphasizes the careful approach that will be taken: “It’s a decision that needs to involve both parties, and everyone has to feel good about it.”

CINCINNATI, OHIO – OCTOBER 21: Thiago Almada #10 of Atlanta United looks to take a free kick during the first half of a MLS soccer match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on October 21, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO – OCTOBER 21: Thiago Almada #10 of Atlanta United looks to take a free kick during the first half of a MLS soccer match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on October 21, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) /

The situation gains even more relevance when considering Almada’s history, who joined Atlanta United in 2022 in a record-breaking $16 million transfer, quickly standing out as one of the best players in the league. Speculations about his future involve the possibility of surpassing the club’s outgoing transfer record set in 2019.

In addition to Almada’s saga, the text highlights the uncertainty surrounding the contract of Miles Robinson, the US international defender, and the confirmation of coach Gonzalo Pineda’s stay for 2024. Atlanta United plans to strengthen its squad, aiming for a balance between continuity and investment, in an increasingly competitive MLS landscape.

In a constantly evolving environment, Atlanta United faces the challenge of retaining its talents while adapting to the dynamics of the transfer market and the demands of a league that is becoming more and more competitive. Thiago Almada’s saga represents not only the pursuit of sporting success but also the complex dance between players, clubs, and the inevitable uncertainties of the soccer world.

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