It may not feel quite the same as when he helped Atlanta United to the 2018 MLS Cup, but Miguel Almiron still became a champion on Sunday -- even if he was an ocean away from where the victory happened.
Almiron's former club Newcastle United defeated Liverpoool 2-1 on Sunday at Wembley in the Carabao Cup Final to secure the Magpies' 11th major domest trophy and first in 70 years, having last won the 1954-55 FA Cup. And before he departed the Northeast England club this Jaunary to return to Atlanta on a $10-million transfer, he played four games in the tournament, making two starts and even helping Newcastle salt away the final 15 minutes of their 2-0 win at Arsenal in Leg 1 of the semifinal in January.
That makes Almiron an official part of the cup-winning side, and eligible for a medal and bonus money, though it's far from certain he would receive either. The Carabao Cup purse is relatively small, and there are a limited number of medals to go around.
Even so, it's another accomplishment Almiron can put on his CV when he reflects back on his career, having also been a part of the first Newcastle squad to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in 20 years during the 2022-23 season.
Unfortunately for Atlanta United, Almiron failed to complete what would've been an amazing Sunday double, earning a domestic title on one continent and defeating Lionel Messi on another.
Miggy provided an excellent ball to Brooks Lennon to create Emmanuel Latte Lath's early goal. But in the end, Herons found a way to grind out yet another win when Fafa Picault connected with Jordi Alba's outswinging cross to head past Brad Guzan in the 89th minute and secure a dramatic 2-1 win.
Almiron was actually looking for his second win over Messi in several months. His Paraguay side defeated Messi's Argentina in CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying 2-1 back in November.
Almiron will re-join the Albirroja this week for two more qualifiers, at home against Chile on Thursday followed by a trip to Colombia on March 25.