ATLANTA (Feb. 4, 2025) – The fast-moving train that Ronny Deila promised is picking up speed. Atlanta United has officially added Emmanuel Latte Lath, the electric, goal-scoring forward from Middlesbrough FC, as the club’s newest Designated Player. The Ivory Coast international has signed a contract through 2028, with an option for 2029, bringing elite pace, finishing ability, and international experience to the Five Stripes.
A Goal-Scoring Machine with Blazing Speed
There’s one word that defines Latte Lath’s game: Fast.
According to chief soccer officer & sporting director Chris Henderson, Latte Lath might be one of the fastest players in MLS. His explosive acceleration and relentless movement make him a nightmare for defenders. He stretches the field, thrives in one-on-one situations, and can score in a variety of ways.
“He’s a forward with excellent pace and good goal-scoring instincts,” Henderson said. “His ability to stretch the field will add another dimension to our attack.”
At Middlesbrough, Latte Lath led his team in scoring, tying for third-most goals in the Championship. His 11 goals this season included finishes with both feet and a stunning header against Leeds United that was nominated for Goal of the Month.
Proven Winner, Consistent Producer
At 26 years old, Latte Lath is entering the prime of his career and has already delivered big numbers across multiple European leagues.
📍 Atalanta (Italy) – Broke onto the scene with 20 goals in 25 matches as a youth player, winning two titles.
📍 St. Gallen (Switzerland) – Scored 14 goals, 4 assists in one season in the Swiss Super League.
📍 Middlesbrough (England) – 29 goals in 67 matches, including a career-best 16-goal season in 2023-24.
📍 Côte d’Ivoire National Team – Earned his first international cap during World Cup qualifiers in 2024.
Since the start of last season, Latte Lath ranks in the top six among Championship strikers in key offensive metrics:
🔥 0.58 goals per 90 minutes (3rd)
🔥 51% of shots on target (4th)
🔥 +0.12 finishing quality per 90 (6th)
His April 2024 goal-scoring streak was nothing short of unstoppable, netting 8 goals in 6 games and earning Player of the Month honors.
A DP Duo Built for Atlanta’s Identity
With two Designated Player spots open, Atlanta United wasted no time securing two high-energy, attacking stars within a week.
⚡ Jan. 30: Miguel Almirón returns – an Atlanta United legend and MLS Cup champion.
⚡ Feb. 4: Latte Lath joins – an elite finisher with European pedigree.
Both Almirón and Latte Lath embody Deila’s vision of an aggressive, high-tempo attack. As Designated Players, they will be expected to lead by example—something Henderson emphasized from day one.
“These players will be expected to produce for Atlanta and set the tone for the rest of the group,” Henderson said.
Beyond goals and speed, Latte Lath brings a unique leadership quality: he speaks five languages (English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese). This ability will help him connect with teammates in a multi-cultural squad and reflect the diverse fabric of Atlanta itself.
What’s Next? A Scary Attack for 2025
Atlanta United now boasts one of the most dynamic front lines in MLS. With Almirón’s creativity, Latte Lath’s finishing, and Saba Lobjanidze’s pace, opposing defenses are in for a nightmare.
The high-speed train is leaving the station—and it’s moving fast. Get on board, Atlanta. 🔴⚫🚀
