History stood between the posts at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday. In Atlanta United’s thrilling home opener win over CF Montréal, Brad Guzan made his 200th MLS regular-season appearance for the 5-Stripes, cementing his status as a club legend.
For Guzan, who spent nearly a decade guarding nets in England, this milestone isn’t just about longevity—it’s about excellence. The veteran goalkeeper has been the backbone of Atlanta United since his arrival in 2017, becoming the club’s most capped player and one of only five to surpass 100 regular-season appearances. And at 39, he’s still making game-changing saves.
From Chivas to Champions
Guzan’s MLS journey began long before Atlanta. His first stint came with Chivas USA back in the day, and now, 279 appearances later, he’s still a force between the sticks. Reflecting on his journey, Guzan is as excited about the league’s growth as he is about his own legacy.
“It’s exciting to see where the league has come from, where we are, and most importantly, where we’re going,” Guzan said. “I’ve been fortunate to witness that growth firsthand. As a fan of the game, I believe the potential here is through the roof.”
Flashback: Guzan’s Top Atlanta United Moments
2017: The First Cap
Guzan’s Atlanta United debut came against Orlando City on July 21, 2017, in a 1-0 win where he registered five saves and a clean sheet. That night, the 17s saw the first glimpse of what would become a legendary career with the 5-Stripes.
2018: The MLS Cup Run
Just two years into his tenure, Guzan backstopped Atlanta United to their historic 2018 MLS Cup triumph. In a dominant postseason, the squad allowed just two goals, and Guzan’s heroics in the final—three crucial saves against Portland Timbers—secured the city’s first major pro sports championship in 23 years.
2024: Playoff Heroics
Fast-forward to last season, and Guzan was still proving his worth. His dramatic penalty save against CF Montréal in the Wild Card round set the stage for Atlanta United’s stunning three-game series upset over Inter Miami. With 18 saves across that playoff run, Guzan showed he still has plenty left in the tank.
The Legacy Continues
For years, Guzan has been more than just a shot-stopper—he’s been a leader, a mentor, and a pillar of consistency. Whether in the locker room, at training, or on match day, his presence is undeniable.
“It’s an honor to represent this club and this city,” Guzan said. “Atlanta is home for my family and me, and we love every part of this club. That feeling never changes.”
As the 2024 season heats up, one thing is certain: with Brad Guzan in goal, Atlanta United always has a fighting chance. Here’s to more saves, more wins, and more history in the making!
