Atlanta United FC confirmed this morning that it has parted ways with midfielder Thiago Almada.
He has been transferred to Botafogo of Eagle Football Holdings for a “league-record transfer fee,” according to the club. No specific fee amount, nor terms of the deal were disclosed.
“We spent more than a year recruiting Thiago to join Atlanta United and during that process we agreed that our club could provide a great platform to showcase his abilities and he would have the opportunity to continue his development until the time was right for him to move on to the next challenge,” said Atlanta United’s Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra, in a statement.
Almada joined Atlanta United in the 2022 season, starting 74 or 79 regular season MLS matches. He got 24 goals and 34 assists in his time with the Five Stripes. He was named MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2022, and MLS Young Player of the Year in 2023. He was part of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the first active MLS player to accomplish this win.
Alamda’s now-confirmed departure opens yet another vacancy in Atlanta United’s roster. Last month, Giorgos Giakoumakis, another Designated Player, exited the team.
“His success is something we’re all proud of and a ton of credit is owed to our scouting department, in addition to everyone who has worked with him at the club,” Bocanegra said. “Our team has been prepared for this move and we will look to immediately reinvest in the team during the upcoming Summer Transfer Window.”
Atlanta United plays Real Salt Lake at America First field in Salt Lake City this afternoon.
Image credit: Atlanta United