Former coach tips Thiago Almada for big move to Europe

Great things have been expected from Thiago Almada ever since he made his debut, aged just 16, for Vélez Sarsfield in the Argentine Primera Division.

The diminutive midfielder was included in the ‘Next Generation’ list of the world’s best young players in 2018 and after less than 50 league matches in his homeland he was ready for his big move overseas.

Some were surprised when the lavishly talented Almada was snapped up by MLS side Atlanta United in 2022, arriving for a league-record transfer fee of $16 million. But Almada has dazzled in MLS and this season leads the league in assists, successful dribbles and goals outside the penalty box.

Thiago Almada linked with Premier League move

The 22-year-old has enjoyed an exceptional season, one that has placed him in contention for the MVP Award. Naturally that has resulted in transfer rumours and talk of interest from the likes of Manchester United.

Speaking to MLS.com Almada’s former coach Marcelo Bravo explained that he is expected big things from the player very soon.

“I’m totally sure that Thiago will be playing in Europe in the near future,” Bravo said. “We knew he was different from the rest.”

“Today, you see a more complete Thiago, he’s stronger, more aggressive. I think soccer in the United States has grown a lot and is very competitive, so I think he’s growing a lot.”

For his part, Thiago admitted recently that he has “the desire to play in Europe” but is not rushing the next part of his career.

“I’m really happy here. I’m enjoying playing in Atlanta and trying to do my best,” he said. “If the opportunity comes at some point, I’ll think about it and make the best choice for me. But I’m relaxed.”

Can Atlanta United win the MLS Cup?

Almada is currently away with Argentina on international duty. He was a late call-up to the Argentinian squad that made history by winning the World Cup last year and is now a regular member of the roster.

He is yet to win any silverware at club level but is looking to change that when he returns to Atlanta for the fascinating climax of the 2023 MLS season. The team have already secured qualification for the playoffs, putting their disappointing failure in 2022 behind them.

“Right now, the goal is to try to finish the games we have left well, finish as high as possible and after that fight for the title, see if we can become champions,” Almada explained. “That’s my goal right now with Atlanta.”

At times this season Atlanta United have been undone by their poor defensive record, which ranks among the worst in the Eastern Conference. But in Thiago Almada they have a player that can be a difference-maker and could help them stage an unlikely charge for the MLS Cup.