Atlanta United has strengthened its midfield by acquiring Mateusz Klich via trade with D.C. United. In exchange, Atlanta will send its first-round pick (No. 23) in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft to D.C. United, which will retain a portion of Klich’s 2025 salary budget charge and his Designated Player slot. If Atlanta re-signs Klich to a new contract, D.C. United will receive $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money. Klich will occupy both a senior roster and an international slot in Atlanta.
Chris Henderson’s Statement
“Mateusz is a central midfielder with proven quality both in this league and at the highest levels in Europe,” said Chris Henderson, Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director. “He’s a good chance creator and can dictate the tempo of a game. His qualities and leadership will be a strong addition to our midfield.”
MLS Career Highlights
- Joined MLS ahead of the 2023 season, starting 62 of 63 matches for D.C. United.
- Durable performer, playing over 2,600 minutes in each of the past two seasons.
- Stats in MLS:
- 6 goals and 22 assists in regular-season play.
- 13 assists in the 2024 season alone.
- Created 147 chances with an 82.9% passing accuracy over two seasons.
European Career
Klich, 34, boasts an impressive career across Europe:
- Leeds United:
- Played five seasons (2018-2023), helping secure promotion to the Premier League in 2019-20.
- Made 82 Premier League appearances and 195 total appearances, scoring 24 goals and adding 22 assists.
- PEC Zwolle: Key player in winning the Dutch Cup, defeating Ajax and securing UEFA Europa League qualification.
- Germany and Poland: Played for VFL Wolfsburg and other German clubs after starting his career with Cracovia in Poland.
- Totaled six goals and four assists during a standout season with FC Twente in the Dutch Eredivisie.
International Experience
Klich has represented Poland 41 times, scoring 2 goals and adding 4 assists. He started all three group-stage matches in UEFA Euro 2020, demonstrating his capability on the international stage.
Player Profile
- Name: Mateusz Klich
- Position: Central Midfielder
- Age: 34
- Nationality: Polish
- Notable Skills: Tempo control, chance creation, and leadership
Klich’s signing adds experience, creativity, and leadership to Atlanta United’s midfield as the club continues to bolster its roster ahead of the 2025 MLS season.
