Atlanta United 2 has added another local success story to its ranks — and this one hits close to home for Georgia soccer fans.
The club announced on December 17, 2025, that Gwinnett County native Liam Butts has signed with Atlanta United 2 ahead of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season, marking the next step in a professional journey that began on local fields and has now come full circle back to Metro Atlanta.
For Atlanta United supporters, youth soccer families, and aspiring local players, Butts’ signing is more than a roster move — it’s another example of how Georgia’s soccer ecosystem continues to produce professional-level talent.
From Gwinnett Soccer to the Pro Ranks
Liam Butts’ rise through the game is a familiar blueprint for elite players in the region. A product of Gwinnett Soccer Academy and later the Atlanta United Academy, Butts developed his foundation in one of the most competitive youth soccer environments in the Southeast.
That early development earned him a collegiate opportunity at Penn State University, where he became a reliable attacking presence for the Nittany Lions. Over four seasons, Butts:
- Scored 25 goals
- Made 72 appearances
- Established himself as a physically strong, technically capable forward at the NCAA Division I level
His college performances caught the attention of MLS scouts, leading to his selection in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft, where he was taken 33rd overall by the San Jose Earthquakes.
Professional Experience Before Returning Home
Although Butts did not ultimately sign with San Jose, his professional journey didn’t stall. Instead, he continued his development in MLS NEXT Pro, signing with New England Revolution II — a league designed specifically to bridge the gap between academy, college, and first-team professional soccer.
With New England Revolution II, Butts:
- Gained consistent professional minutes
- Showed growth as a target forward and link-up player
- Earned recognition for standout performances during the 2025 season
That experience proved critical, allowing him to adapt to the pace, physicality, and tactical demands of the professional game before landing with Atlanta United 2.
Why Atlanta United 2 Makes Sense for Liam Butts
Atlanta United 2 has increasingly positioned itself as a true development platform, not just a reserve side. Competing in MLS NEXT Pro, the club emphasizes:
- Clear pathways from Academy → ATL UTD 2 → First Team
- High-level competition against other MLS organizations
- Tactical alignment with Atlanta United’s senior squad
For Butts, joining Atlanta United 2 offers:
- A return to a familiar environment
- Coaching continuity within the Atlanta United system
- A legitimate opportunity to push toward MLS first-team consideration
At 6-foot-plus with strong hold-up play, aerial presence, and finishing ability, Butts brings a profile that complements Atlanta United 2’s attacking options as the club prepares for the 2026 season.
A Win for Georgia’s Soccer Pipeline
Butts’ signing reinforces a trend that Atlanta soccer fans know well: local players can make it — and come back stronger.
Atlanta United’s investment in youth development has created a pathway where players:
- Train locally
- Compete nationally
- Gain professional experience
- Re-enter the system better prepared for higher levels
Recent seasons have seen Atlanta United and ATL UTD 2 increasingly lean on Georgia-developed talent, especially as MLS NEXT Pro continues to mature into a legitimate proving ground.
For youth players in Gwinnett County and beyond, Butts’ journey serves as a tangible example of what’s possible with persistence, adaptability, and the right development environment.
What This Means for Atlanta United 2 in 2026
Heading into the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro campaign, Atlanta United 2 is focused on:
- Building competitive depth
- Developing players ready for first-team integration
- Maintaining a strong local identity
Adding Butts accomplishes all three. He arrives with:
- College production
- Professional league experience
- Familiarity with Atlanta United’s culture and expectations
As roster competition increases, Butts is expected to compete immediately for minutes, while continuing to refine his game under a development-focused coaching staff.
Why This Matters to Fans and Families
For Atlanta United supporters, this signing is another reminder that the club’s long-term vision extends beyond marquee first-team signings. The organization continues to invest in:
- Local players
- Sustainable development
- Community connection
For youth soccer parents across Metro Atlanta, Butts’ return reinforces the idea that staying in the game — even through detours — can still lead to professional opportunities.
What’s Next for Liam Butts?
As preseason preparations begin, all eyes will be on how Butts integrates with ATL UTD 2’s attacking group. Strong performances could position him as:
- A leader within the second team
- A potential depth option for Atlanta United
- Another success story from Georgia’s soccer pipeline
One thing is clear: Liam Butts is back home — and his professional journey is far from finished.
Call to Action
What do you think Liam Butts can bring to Atlanta United 2 in 2026?
Should ATL UTD continue prioritizing local signings in MLS NEXT Pro?
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Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.