The winds of change are blowing through Atlanta as Atlanta United announced its year-end roster moves, setting the stage for what promises to be an electric 2025 season. With 18 players locked in, a mix of contract extensions, departures, and ongoing negotiations signal a transformative offseason for the 5-Stripes.
The club exercised contract options for four players, ensuring a solid foundation moving forward. Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who’s been a stalwart between the sticks, will return alongside rising star Jay Fortune, defensive talent Efraín Morales, and midfield dynamo Santiago Sosa.
These key decisions keep the core intact while signaling a vote of confidence in some of Atlanta’s brightest prospects.
Six players had their contract options declined, including familiar faces like Ronald Hernández, Franco Ibarra, and Tyler Wolff. But hold on—this isn’t goodbye just yet. Atlanta remains in talks with Hernández, Jamal Thiaré, and Wolff, leaving the door open for potential returns.
Meanwhile, two club legends are hanging up their boots:
- Dax McCarty, who capped off an incredible 19-year MLS career with a valiant playoff run.
- Quentin Westberg, who brought experience and leadership during his six MLS seasons.
Another notable departure is forward Daniel Ríos, whose loan ends on Dec. 31. His future remains uncertain as Atlanta reshapes its attack.
The action isn’t over yet, folks! Buckle up for a whirlwind MLS offseason schedule:
- Dec. 9: Half-day trade window opens.
- Dec. 11: MLS Expansion Draft as San Diego FC joins the league.
- Dec. 12: Free Agency and End-of-Year Waivers.
- Dec. 13: Re-Entry Process, Stage 1.
Atlanta’s front office has work to do as they navigate this critical period, aiming to build on the momentum of an inspiring 2024 playoff run.
Here’s how Atlanta United is shaping up for 2025:
Under Contract (18):
- Goalkeepers (3): Josh Cohen, Brad Guzan, Jayden Hibbert
- Defenders (8): Luis Abram, Pedro Amador, Noah Cobb, Matthew Edwards, Stian Gregersen, Brooks Lennon, Efraín Morales, Derrick Williams
- Midfielders (8): Jay Fortune, Saba Lobjanidze, Alexey Miranchuk, Edwin Mosquera, Tristan Muyumba, Bartosz Slisz, Santiago Sosa, Adyn Torres
- Forwards (3): Luke Brennan, Ashton Gordon, Xande Silva
Atlanta United fans, it’s time to get hyped. With a blend of returning veterans, emerging stars, and potential new signings, 2025 is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in the 5-Stripes saga.
Stay tuned—there’s plenty more drama to unfold as Atlanta’s beloved soccer team retools for glory. The countdown to kickoff has begun!
#UniteAndConquer
