Cooper Sanchez, a midfielder, has signed an MLS NEXT Pro contract with Atlanta United 2, effective immediately. The deal runs through 2025. With team options for 2027 and 2028, Sanchez will become Atlanta United’s 20th homegrown player on January 1, 2026. When the former Academy standout stepped in as a substitute in a 2-0 victory over Chicago Fire II, he became the youngest player in club history to appear for ATL UTD 2 (15 years, 27 days).
“We are excited to have Cooper join our Second Team after showcasing his development and potential with our Academy squads,” Director of Methodology Javier Pérez said. “He has proven his versatility in the midfield and was a key piece in the U-16’s MLS NEXT Cup Championship win last year. Cooper’s signing further displays the strong development pathway through our club and we look forward to his continued growth on and off the pitch.”
The 16-year-old Sanchez participated in the U-16s’ 2018 season after enrolling in Atlanta United’s Academy. The midfielder was a member of the 2023 U-16 team that won the MLS NEXT Cup after going 22-1-1 in the regular season and scoring in the championship match against Strikers FC. Sanchez is eligible to represent the United States internationally and most recently made his debut with the United States U-16 squad in May for matches against Uruguay and Argentina. Sanchez has made two professional appearances with Atlanta United 2, having come on as a substitute twice last season and appearing in Atlanta United’s 2024 preseason match against Birmingham Legion FC.
