Atlanta United have confirmed that Santiago Sosa has moved to Racing Club in the Argentine top flight, thus ending the midfielder's four-year stay in Major League Soccer. The transfer now sends Sosa away amid a busy period for the club, which is looking to reorganize its roster after a season of ups and downs and plan for a more competitive future. With an already scorching hot offseason, the transfer signals strategic changes in midfield and makes it clear that Atlanta is ready to rebuild essential parts of the squad.
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Sosa's low-key trajectory at Atlanta United
When Santiago Sosa joined Atlanta United in 2021 from River Plate, he came in with some level of expectation. Having featured for Argentina's youth national teams and being part of the MLS U22 Initiative, he was supposed to be a long-term investment in the club. However, Sosa's numbers through his time in Atlanta were less than impressive: just one goal and one assist in 70 matches across all competitions.
With steady performances and in solid condition, tactically, he never managed to impose himself as an important presence in the midfield, especially for a team that went through so many ups and downs and changes. Loaned to Racing Club in 2024, Sosa rediscovered his best expression. In 48 appearances, he helped the club win the Copa Sudamericana, a meaningful title for him and the Argentine club.
The permanent move to Racing can be considered a "necessary fresh start." On the other hand, The Five Stripes can free up space in the squad and on the payroll for new names and ideas.
Atlanta United's rebuilding phase
Sosa’s exit happens at a crucial time. Atlanta United is clearly in the early stages of a busy offseason, focusing on building a team capable of advancing further in the Audi 2024 MLS Cup playoffs.
In 2024, the club surprised many by eliminating Inter Miami CF, the winners of the Supporters’ Shield, but their playoff journey ended in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Now, Atlanta’s reconstruction depends on smart decision-making.
Sosa's departure frees up a midfield position, which is one area where Atlanta will most likely seek reinforcements. For 2025, Atlanta definitely needs a more dynamic and creative midfield, considering the makeup of their current squad.
Almost there
The 2024 season left Atlanta United with that feeling of almost, especially after their historic playoff win over Inter Miami CF. The team showed they could challenge the best, but inconsistency and a lack of squad depth exposed areas for improvement.
Now, the offseason will prove to be decisive in resolving the gaps left by Sosa, among other potential departures.
The transfer of Santiago Sosa to Racing Club closes a chapter for both player and club. For Atlanta, it's an opportunity to reshape its roster and look ahead to what's next. The 2024 offseason will be key. Calculated moves by Atlanta United will be required to strengthen the squad and fix positions that need improvement in order to be more competitive during the 2025 season.