The Thiago Almada era is over at Atlanta United. Almada’s MLS-record transfer to John Textor and Eagle Football Group’s Botafogo was officially announced on Saturday; he’ll reportedly move to Textor’s Olympique Lyonnais in Ligue 1 in January.
In two-and-a-half seasons, Almada’s given Atlanta fans a number of great memories while wearing the No. 10 shirt. Unfortunately, the club couldn’t win a trophy during his time here, but he landed several personal accolades including MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2022 along with an MLS All-Star apperance, Best XI selection, and Young Player of the Year award in 2023. His biggest personal achievement came at the end of 2022 as he was part of the Argentina team that won the nation’s first World Cup since 1986, making him the only active player in MLS to win the tournament.
With Almada’s transfer complete, let’s look back at his most memorable moments with Atlanta United:
5. March 19, 2022: A gorgeous strike from outside the box against CF Montréal for his first MLS goal
Despite Atlanta United trailing 3-1 in the 85th minute and playing with 10 men after Dom Dwyer’s sending-off in the 67th minute, Almada’s beautiful first MLS goal, a well-hit effort beyond the box, gave the team a late lifeline.
It was quite the way to open his account, even though Brooks Lennon got the headlines for his stoppage-time equalizer as Atlanta rescued an improbable point.
4. June 19, 2024: A remarkable solo goal against D.C. United
Atlanta United needed just one goal to defeat D.C. United in June, and it came off the foot of Almada. Admittedly, the 2024 season didn’t see him in the best form of his life, but this brilliant solo effort showcased his talent and served as a reminder of what a gifted player he is.
3. May 17, 2023: A perfect free kick against the Colorado Rapids
This was a vintage free kick from Almada: the calmness, the lift over the wall, the curve toward the left post. William Yarbrough’s reaction says it all as he had no chance at stopping this one.
Atlanta ended up winning 4-0, but this hit from Almada was the moment of the match.
2. March 18, 2023: A dazzling free-kick goal against the Portland Timbers
Atlanta gave the Portland Timbers a 4-1 beating in the first meeting between the two sides at the Benz since MLS Cup 2018. Almada ended up with a brace on the evening, which included this gem of a free kick that barely could have been placed any better.
1. February 25, 2023: A stunning brace in stoppage time to beat the San Jose Earthquakes in the 2023 season opener
I mean, come on. It doesn’t get any better than this. This is the definition of a “remember where you were” moment. Despair over what looked as if it would be a season-opening loss for Atlanta gave way to jubilation in just a matter of moments as Almada produced what inarguably was his signature moment with the club.
We will miss him. Can’t help but think the team should have done more with him on the roster.
He was fun to watch. I can’t believe we wasted his time here
Just a certified baller