Atlanta United announced today that it has triggered the purchase option for winger Xande Silva. The Portuguese attacker is now a permanent piece of the squad heading into 2024, with his deal being a two year contract with an option for 2026.
Most fans and pundits have been in agreement that Silva, alongside other summer moves like Tristan Muyumba and Saba Lobjanidze, had an immediate impact on making the Five Stripes a significantly stronger side.
Silva, however, was only on loan to Atlanta United from French Ligue 2 side Dijon, in what essentially could be marked up as an elongated trial period. Xande performed admirably, netting 4 goals, 2 assists, and a remarkably strong (for an attacking player) 82.5% pass accuracy. His work rate endeared him to fans, as did his goal celebration antics like throwing on a Spiderman mask and slinging webs, doing backflips, or hitting the griddy.
We’ll be chatting about the move throughout the week, which is likely the first in a long list of potential transfers for Atlanta United over the offseason. Also be sure to keep an eye on our Youtube channel throughout the week as we dive into a variety of interviews with insiders around MLS to prepare you for MLS Cup!