ATLANTA, GEORGIA—Thiago Almada, a midfielder for Atlanta United, was selected to play for Argentina’s men’s national team at the FIFA World CupTM in Qatar, according to breaking news released by Argentina on Thursday afternoon. Almada was a last-minute replacement who took Joaquin Correa’s position on the squad.
The Atlanta United midfielder became a viable possibility for Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni thanks to his impressive club play, which earned him the MLS Newcomer of the Year award, and a recent international showing. Almada made his senior international debut on September 23 after being called to Argentina for a pair of friendlies. Even Argentina captain Lionel Messi praised the 21-year-play old’s in the 3-0 victory over Honduras.
The information is ground-breaking for MLS and Atlanta United. Almada is the first player still playing for Atlanta United to represent his nation at a World Cup. He also becomes the first player from the MLS to play for Argentina in the competition.
In the competition, Argentina joins Group C, which also features Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Poland. On November 22, the team’s first game will take place against Saudi Arabia.
