What a weekend that was.
Jackson here on your Monday morning, and I’m still trying to find the words to describe the new and innovative ways Atlanta United has found to drop points. It’s truly remarkable.
Saturday’s 3-2 loss to the next-to-last Philadelphia Union has Atlanta United now solidly in the driver’s seat for the Wooden Spoon, last place in the entire league. A 2-1 lead evaporated in the blink of an eye in stoppage time as the Union rallied past a demoralized Atlanta squad that could only watch as their opponents claimed a third consecutive win to rise up the table. Don’t forget to give your thoughts in our player ratings form, which closes at 7 pm tonight.
More news dropped yesterday as Atlanta officially annouced a move for Latte Lath, the once most expensive signing in the league is now on his way to Germany to join Union Berlin in the Bundesliga. The deal is a one year loan through the 2026-2027 season, corresponding with the end of next year’s sprint season. With Union Berlin taking on the salary responsibilities, a Designated Player spot is now open for the Five Stripes.
More reports surfaced on that front as well, with legendary Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku the latest name to be linked with Atlanta United’s now vacant starting striker role. Lukaku, 33, has played for Napoli since 2024, and has had some more recent battles with injury. Despite that, he performed well at the World Cup this summer with three goals and one assist on limited minutes. A deal seems to be early on, however, so stay tuned in for any progress.
Top Story
Atlanta United loan Emmanuel Latte Lath to Union Berlin, free a DP spot
The Latte Lath to Union Berlin loan is done, as Atlanta United send their MLS-record striker to the Bundesliga and free a Designated Player spot for…
Also…
Report: Romelu Lukaku emerges as transfer target for Atlanta United
Romelu Lukaku appears to be in the sights of Atlanta United, who are reportedly showing “strong interest” in…
Atlanta United at Philadelphia Union: Player ratings form
Rate the players after Atlanta United’s 3-2 loss to the Philadelphia Union.
Atlanta United at Philadelphia Union: I, too, like broken hearts
From down a man and up 2 goals to down a man and losing 3-2. Welcome to Atlanta.
ICYMI: Reaction Sunday to Atlanta’s stunning collapse + transfer news!
Sydney, Grey, and Tommy break down a whirlwind weekend with Atlanta’s 3-2 loss in Philadelphia and the transfer news cycle keeps churning.
Reminder: MLS Monday tonight at 9 PM!
Catch up on news from around the league tonight, live at 9 PM on YouTube!
Help support independent Atlanta soccer coverage
Every week, Scarves and Spikes brings you original interviews, on-site coverage, live shows and podcasts, and the analysis you won’t find at the bigger national outlets. With 2026 being a World Cup year, Atlanta United facing yet another important transfer window, the U.S. Soccer National Training Center setting up shop in the Atlanta area, and NWSL Atlanta kicking off in 2028, your support helps us do even more.
What you get on Patreon:
- Atlanta United training ground updates
- Exclusive interviews, like our recent sit-down with ATL UTD 2 head coach Jose Silva
- Discord access, talk Atlanta soccer with the SnS team and other supporters
- Patreon-only mailbags
- Grey Gowder’s analytical deep-dives on roster construction, the academy, ATL UTD 2, and more
Membership starts at $5/month. New subscribers get a 7-day free trial.
That’s your rundown for today. Enjoy your Monday!