ATLANTA, GEORGIA—The Atlanta United FC has decided to loan Argentininia midfielder Ezequiel Barco to the Argentinian football club Atletico River Plate. With the loan, Barco will not play for Major League Soccer this year but for River Plate in Argentina. According to reports, United FC and River Plate already signed the deal for the loan last January 28.
The transaction consists of a two-season loan with an option to buy at 50% of the player’s transfer value.
The River Plate may enact this option at the end of 2022 or the end of 2023. United FC for its part said the team still retains Barco’s contract rights beyond this season. “Ezequiel has been an important part of our success over the last four seasons,” Atlanta United Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra said. “He helped us win three trophies and is coming off the best season of his young career. We felt that this move made sense for both Ezequiel and the club and we wish him continued success during his loan at River Plate,” Bocanegra added. Jorge Brito, River’s President, said: “We are very pleased to have reached an agreement with Atlanta on Esequiel’s arrival. We trust his qualities as a person and as a player, and we wish him the greatest of success as he enters this new stage at River Plate.”
The year 2021 is a breakout year for mercurial Argentine playmaker Barco.
For the sixth time this year, Barco was selected as part of the Major League Soccer player of the week for week 26.
The 22-year-old is putting together the best season of his Atlanta United career.
He’s already reached career highs in goals (7) and assists (6). His productive run in August landed Barco on Team of the Week three consecutive times.
“Preparation,” Barco said when asked about the key to his consistent performances.
“I think we have to keep preparing 100 percent during the week leading up to these games because that is what helps you mentally, physically,” Barco added.
