Miguel Almirón Returns to Atlanta | OneFootball

The rumors are confirmed: Miguel Almirón is set to leave Newcastle United and return to Atlanta United. Transfer fees are reported to be around $12M and he would occupy one of Atlanta’s two open Designated Player slots.

It was nearly six years ago when the Paraguayan national traveled the opposite direction, forsaking the Five Stripes for the Magpies. The transfer fee then was reportedly £21 million, a record for both the club and the MLS. Almirón’s return is a heartwarming moment for the Atlanta soccer community, marking a full-circle journey for one of their favorite players and rekindling triumphant memories of their glorious 2018 season.

(Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

Almirón’s journey to the ATL began after the team first entered the MLS in 2016. Signed as a “Young Designated Player” by the expansion franchise, he moved to the U.S. in early 2017. His impact was immediate, with teammates describing him as the “heartbeat” of the young squad. He also won the MLS Newcomer of the Year award. His remarkable performance continued into 2018, which was his and the club’s breakout year.

Atlanta United, in only their second season, made a storied run in the postseason MLS Cup, winning every playoff qualifier and defeating the Portland Timbers in the final. Almirón was selected to the MLS Best XI, the all-star MLS Playoff Team, and recorded 13 goals and 13 assists during this time, his exceptional play drawing attention both in the U.S. and elsewhere.

Catching a Magpie’s Eye

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One club attracted to Almirón’s scintillating talents was Newcastle United, and in 2019 they made Atlanta 21 million offers for the young star. Once again, Almirón’s charming personality and broad smile endeared him to Newcastle fans and media alike. On the pitch, however, he spent most of the season recovering from a hamstring injury. He would vacillate between periods of brilliance and bouts of struggle over the next five years. His work rate and explosive start to the 2022-23 season was instrumental to the club’s strong finish and return to the Champions League after a long absence. In all, he made 223 appearances and netted 30 goals and 12 assists.

Throughout his stint in England, Almirón’s connection to Atlanta remained strong. During a pre-season friendly in July 2023 he returned to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and was treated to a hero’s welcome but rapturous applause when he scored in stoppage time.

The Circle Closes

Now, as he prepares to don the red and black once more, Almirón’s return is more than just a transfer; it’s a homecoming. Atlanta United supporters are eager to see their prodigal son back on familiar turf, orchestrating plays and igniting the passion that first endeared him to the city.

Celebrating with teammates in 2018 (Source)

In a statement, Almirón expressed his gratitude: “Atlanta has always held a special place in my heart. The fans, the city, the memories. We achieved so much together. I am thrilled to return home and create new moments of glory with this incredible club.”

As the Five Stripes gear up for the upcoming season, the anticipation is palpable. With Almirón’s return, Atlanta United not only regains a special talent but also stokes the embers of a cherished chapter in its history. Welcome back to the ATL, Miguel!