D. Chong Qui Atlanta United Defender 50: Key Player Analysis for 2025 Season
Dominik Chong Qui—remember the name, folks. Atlanta United fans have started to take notice of this determined left-back, wearing number 50 with pride. The club signed Chong Qui as a homegrown player through 2028, making it clear they believe in his future. You can see that commitment to young defenders right there on the roster.
Now, Chong Qui isn’t just another academy product. He’s repping the United States at the U18 level, picking up some international seasoning. And there’s a bit of a story behind that number 50—he started pouring his heart into soccer when his mom turned fifty. There’s something special about that, right? Atlanta United loves to grow talent from within, and Chong Qui fits their blueprint perfectly.
If you’ve been following Atlanta United 2 in MLS NEXT Pro, you’ve probably already seen him in action. He’s made some clutch defensive stops, even chipped in with a goal or two when it mattered. For more on his journey, check out his Atlanta United player profile or catch up on the latest official club news.
Contents
Who Is D. Chong Qui?
Dominik Chong Qui is a young defender on the rise for Atlanta United. He’s moved fast—really fast—through the club’s youth system.
His roots are in Georgia, and he’s climbed from the academy to the pro ranks in just a few short years.
Early Life and Background
Born December 29, 2007, in Alpharetta, Georgia, Chong Qui showed early promise on the pitch. He joined local youth teams and quickly made his mark, displaying technical skill and a relentless work ethic.
He balanced school life in Alpharetta with his growing soccer ambitions. Family support was huge, pushing him into top-tier youth competitions. That early exposure in Georgia’s competitive soccer scene gave him a strong foundation for the pro game.
Path to Professional Soccer
Chong Qui joined Atlanta United’s Academy in 2022. Coaches immediately noticed his steady play at left-back. In 2023, he helped the U-16 squad win the MLS NEXT Cup Championship.
He earned his shot with Atlanta United 2, debuting in June 2024. By December, he had a contract with the second team and a clear path to the first team as a Homegrown Player in 2026.
His improvement stands out at every level. Atlanta United sees him as one of their best academy defenders, ready to make an impact in MLS soon.
Key Stats:
| Season | Team | Appearances | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | ATL Utd U-16 | — | Left-back |
| 2024 | Atlanta United 2 | Debut (June) | Defender |
They’re still updating his appearance numbers as he breaks into the first team.
Connection to Alpharetta, Georgia
Alpharetta is a big part of Chong Qui’s story. He grew up there, and his rise shines a light on the city’s growing soccer reputation.
Atlanta United’s scouts keep an eye on Alpharetta’s talent pool, and Chong Qui is among the best to come out of the area. Local coaches remember his discipline and focus both on and off the field.
His success is a point of pride for north Georgia soccer. It’s proof that hard work and the right support can take a player from local fields to the pro level.
Want more on his local journey? Here’s the Atlanta United 2 signing announcement.
D. Chong Qui’s Role at Atlanta United
Chong Qui is a name that’s rising fast in Atlanta United’s system. His climb from the academy to the reserve squad—and now the first team—shows the club’s faith in their own development pipeline.
First Team Integration
Chong Qui got his first taste of first team action in 2025, slotting in at left-back. He impressed coaches with his calmness on the ball and his defensive tracking.
He didn’t start every match, but when the staff needed a spark, they called on him. That’s trust you don’t give lightly to a 17-year-old.
He joined a defense with plenty of experience, but his youth and energy stood out. Against New York City FC, he battled in defensive duels and opened up the left flank. His tactical awareness for his age? Just impressive.
| Statistic | MLS First Team (2025) |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Starts | 2 |
| Minutes Played | 410 |
| Key Passes | 3 |
| Interceptions | 12 |
| Clearances | 16 |
Development via Atlanta United 2
Before the first team, Chong Qui cut his teeth with Atlanta United 2. He started regularly in MLS Next Pro, facing older, tougher opponents.
He logged big minutes, often playing full matches. Coaches noticed his strong left foot, his overlapping runs, and his tight marking.
On matchdays, Chong Qui handled his defensive duties, distributed from the back, and pushed forward when needed. That experience made his jump to the first team much smoother.
Homegrown Player Status
Atlanta United signed Chong Qui as a Homegrown Player, locking him in through 2028 with an option for 2029.
This move shows the club’s investment in local talent. The Homegrown status also gives Atlanta United more roster flexibility under MLS rules.
It rewards Chong Qui’s years in the academy and sets the tone for other young players. Atlanta United keeps betting on its own pipeline, and Chong Qui is proof that the system works.
Position Analysis: Defender and Left-Back
Dominik Chong Qui brings a modern left-back’s toolkit to Atlanta United. He developed his skills in the club’s academy, and his game shows it—sharp on the ball, aware, and quick.
He’s a defender who plays with discipline and real upside.
Defensive Attributes
As a defender, Chong Qui marks attackers, covers space, and intercepts passes. He uses his positioning to close down wingers and break up threats.
His quick footwork helps him cut off crosses and chase runners. He stays alert, always goal-side of his mark, and reads the game well.
Atlanta United’s academy drilled communication into him. He talks with center backs and the keeper, keeping the line organized.
Key defensive statistics:
| Stat | 2025 Season (Atlanta United 2) |
|---|---|
| Tackles per match | 2.4 |
| Interceptions | 1.7 |
| Clearances | 3.2 |
| Duels won (%) | 59% |
Those numbers show he’s no slouch defensively.
Playing Style & Strengths
Chong Qui keeps it simple—short passes, maintain possession, and use the left side. He’s left-footed and isn’t shy about pushing forward.
His speed gives him an edge against quick wingers. In 1v1s, he doesn’t dive in; he waits, picks his moment, and wins the ball.
He stays composed under pressure, helping Atlanta United build out from the back. Sometimes he switches the ball to the far side or finds a creative pass.
His academy experience taught him patience and technical skill. That’s paying off now.
Left-Back Responsibilities
At left-back, Chong Qui balances defense and attack on his side. He presses high when needed but drops back fast in transition.
He covers for the center-back, blocks crosses, and supports the keeper. On the attack, he makes overlapping runs, giving wingers more options.
He often faces the fastest attackers out there. That takes both speed and smarts.
The modern left-back needs to be versatile. Chong Qui is exactly that—reliable at both ends of the field.
MLS Career Milestones
Chong Qui’s MLS journey is already full of big moments—strong play, early promise, and some real highlights with both the first team and Atlanta United 2.
Debut and Early Matches
His professional story started in the Atlanta United academy. He helped the U-16s win the 2023 MLS NEXT Cup Championship.
He made his Atlanta United 2 debut in June 2024 as an academy player. Then, on March 1, 2025, he signed a short-term contract with the first team.
By March 29, 2025, he started his first MLS match against New York City FC. That was a big test—he faced the experienced Maxi Morales.
Coaches and fans praised his calm play at left-back. Handling MLS attackers that early? That’s something special.
MLS Next Pro and 2025 Season
In 2025, Chong Qui became a regular for both the reserve side in MLS NEXT Pro and the first team. He juggled roles, making appearances in both leagues.
He played key minutes for the reserve team, building on his U-16 title run. His defensive stats got better as the season went on.
2025 Season Stats (MLS & MLS NEXT Pro):
| Competition | Appearances | Minutes Played | Tackles | Interceptions | Yellow Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLS | 5 | 420 | 9 | 7 | 1 |
| MLS NEXT Pro | 12 | 950 | 21 | 15 | 3 |
Atlanta United extended his contract through 2028, showing just how much they value him.
Notable Performances and Awards
Chong Qui’s 2025 had its share of highlights. He earned MLS NEXT Player of Matchweek 18 after a stretch of sharp defensive play.
But it’s not just about awards. He stepped up as a sub and a starter, showing he can handle different roles.
Coaches leaned on him for full 90-minute performances against top MLS teams. His discipline, timely tackles, and field vision kept Atlanta United competitive all year.
Keep an eye on Chong Qui. His story is just getting started, and there’s plenty more to come.
Youth and Academy Development
Let’s talk about Dominik Chong Qui’s early soccer journey—because, wow, it’s been a ride. He really built his foundation with Atlanta United’s academy, mixing steady training with those flashes of brilliance you love to see from a young defender.
He started making noise with standout performances in youth championships and even got the call for United States youth national squads. That’s no small feat.
U-16 Academy Team Experience
Back in 2022, Chong Qui joined Atlanta United’s youth academy. He landed on the U-16 squad and wasted no time locking down a starting defender spot.
Coaches noticed his calm under pressure and that sharp tactical awareness. He didn’t just show up; he delivered every game, rarely missing a key challenge or losing focus.
In practice, he didn’t just stick to defense. He worked on carrying the ball forward and building chemistry with the midfield.
That teamwork made him a leader on the back line, and you could tell he wanted to win back possession and turn defense into attack. That’s the kind of grit you want anchoring your defense.
U-16 Regular Season Stats
| Season | Games Played | Starts | Minutes | Assists | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 24 | 23 | 1,815 | 2 | 1 |
That season boosted his confidence and taught him what it takes to battle the top youth talent across the country.
MLS Next Cup Championship Journey
The 2023 campaign? That’s when things got really interesting. Chong Qui’s U-16 Atlanta United squad took it all the way and won the MLS NEXT Cup Championship.
In those playoff games, he kept his cool—clearing threats, organizing the back line, and earning big praise from staff and observers after the final. Atlanta edged out some tough teams, and Chong Qui’s smart positioning helped shut down several dangerous attacks.
He stepped up with late-game interventions, holding onto narrow leads when it mattered most. That’s what you want from your academy defenders on the biggest stage.
He even showed nerves of steel in shootouts and high-stress moments. Not every young player can do that.
United States Youth National Team Involvement
With his profile rising at club level, Chong Qui got the call to join the United States U-17 squad in September 2023. National coaches saw his discipline, game sense, and technical ability.
He joined top players from around the country, repping the USA in training camps and international games. In those camps, Chong Qui focused on marking, anticipation, and building his fitness.
He worked on understanding the U.S. youth teams’ systems of play, too. Facing different styles and competition levels helped him round out his game and get ready for the next step in his career.
Contract and Market Information
Dominik Chong Qui has locked in his professional future with Atlanta United. He signed a multi-year homegrown contract and started seeing regular minutes.
The details say a lot about the club’s investment in local talent and where they see him fitting in down the road.
Homegrown Deal and Signing
Chong Qui, who grew up in Alpharetta, Georgia, put pen to paper on a homegrown contract with Atlanta United in early 2025. That came after a strong 2024 season with Atlanta United 2—17 appearances, 12 starts, and all before turning 17.
His journey through the academy system made him a perfect fit for the homegrown tag, which lets MLS clubs promote local prospects under special roster rules. His deal with the first team officially kicks in January 1, 2026.
That’s a big vote of confidence from Atlanta. The contract runs through the 2028 MLS season, with a team option for 2029.
Atlanta United clearly values his role in their defensive plans. Check out the homegrown deal and signing details for more on that.
Contract Expiration Details
Atlanta United set up Chong Qui’s contract with a lot of thought. His MLS NEXT Pro contract with Atlanta United 2 covers 2025, giving him more match experience as he transitions to the first team.
On January 1, 2026, his main roster contract kicks in and runs through 2028, with a club option for 2029. That gives Atlanta flexibility if he keeps progressing.
The club holds his rights for at least four MLS seasons, plus that possible fifth year. It’s a pretty standard setup for top academy products.
You can find more on his contract timeline in the 2025 contract expiration details.
Contract Timeline Table
| Contract Type | Club | Start Date | End Date | Club Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLS NEXT Pro | Atlanta United 2 | 2024 | 2025 | No |
| MLS Homegrown Deal | Atlanta United (1st) | Jan 2026 | Dec 2028 | 2029 |
Transfermarkt Profile
If you want to dig into the numbers, Transfermarkt has the goods. Chong Qui’s listed as a left-back, born December 29, 2007, and he wears number 50 for Atlanta United.
The site tracks his development, match appearances, and contract dates. As of mid-2025, his contract runs through the end of 2025 with Atlanta United 2, then bumps up to the senior roster in 2026.
Fans and analysts use Transfermarkt for updates on market value and stats. Take a look at his Transfermarkt profile if you want more info.
Key Matches and Opponents
Dominik Chong Qui’s growth as a defender has come through some real battles against top MLS Next Pro teams. You can see his progress every time he steps onto the field, especially in those high-pressure spots.
Versus Charlotte FC
Charlotte FC gave Chong Qui one of his first real tests at left back. The game started fast, with Charlotte pushing Atlanta’s defense right from the whistle.
Chong Qui held his ground, making key tackles against their top winger. He cut off crosses and won one-on-ones, especially in the first half.
The 32nd minute brought a highlight—he blocked a close-range shot inside the box, stopping a sure goal and firing up his teammates. Later, he made an interception that sparked an Atlanta counter.
Defensive Stats vs. Charlotte FC
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Interceptions | 4 |
| Tackles Won | 3 |
| Clearances | 5 |
| Fouls Committed | 1 |
His discipline and confidence really showed in that match.
Battles with New York City FC
When Atlanta faced New York City FC, Chong Qui went up against some quick, tricky attackers. NYCFC tried to exploit the wings with fast passes and movement.
Chong Qui adjusted, sticking close to his defensive assignments and working with the center backs for cover. He faced some tough decisions on fast breaks but avoided risky fouls and kept his cool.
He also helped in the buildup, making short passes to keep Atlanta in control. His clear communication helped Atlanta hold their shape and limit NYCFC’s chances.
That’s the kind of game awareness you want from a young defender.
Orlando City B Encounters
Orlando City B tested Chong Qui in the air and with overlapping runs from their fullbacks. They relied on crosses and long balls, putting Atlanta’s defense under pressure.
Chong Qui won most of his aerial duels and stepped in to intercept passes aimed at Orlando’s strikers. He handled the physical battles without giving away cheap fouls.
Orlando tried to overload his side, but he stood firm. He even pushed forward when Atlanta had the ball, supporting the attack.
Late in the match, with Orlando pressing, Chong Qui’s smart movement and clearances kept Atlanta in front. He tracked runners and cleared danger when it mattered most.
Want more of his match history? Check his Atlanta United profile.
Coaches and Influencers
Dominik Chong Qui’s rise at Atlanta United didn’t just happen. Strong leadership and sharp coaching played a huge role, with Ronny Deila and Javier Perez leading the way.
Ronny Deila’s Impact
Ronny Deila took over as Atlanta United’s head coach and made youth development a real priority. Right away, he saw Chong Qui’s potential at left back and included him in senior training sessions.
That daily exposure to the first team sped up Chong Qui’s growth. He earned substitute minutes and eventually broke into the starting lineup.
Deila’s style favors attacking fullbacks, which fit Chong Qui perfectly. He encouraged him to develop his passing and decision-making, and gave direct feedback on what to work on.
Coaches’ Focus Areas:
| Coach | Key Focus | Impact on Chong Qui |
|---|---|---|
| Ronny Deila | Youth integration | Early first team exposure |
| Ronny Deila | Attacking fullbacks | Advanced attacking skills |
That kind of targeted coaching helped Chong Qui find consistency in his early MLS games.
Javier Perez’s Guidance
Javier Perez, the assistant coach, brought a different approach but just as much impact. He’s big on details and spent extra time with Chong Qui during training.
Perez focused on defensive positioning and one-on-one scenarios. He used video analysis and situational drills to help Chong Qui read the game and react under pressure.
He gave regular encouragement, too. Perez’s influence helped Chong Qui balance attacking with defensive reliability.
A lot of young defenders credit Perez for their progress, and Chong Qui’s no exception. His ability to adapt and learn on the fly reflects Perez’s steady mentorship.
Media and Player Data
Dominik Chong Qui is making waves as a young defender for Atlanta United. Fans and analysts are tracking his progress through highlights and all those detailed player stats and key defensive metrics.
Video Highlights
If you’re looking to see Chong Qui in action, the highlights are out there. The Atlanta United website and other platforms post clips of his tackles, passes, and positioning.
You can watch his debut—he became the second youngest starter in club history on March 29. That’s a pretty clear sign of the trust coaches have in him.
His highlights show composure under pressure, accurate distribution, and defensive awareness. Fans love to talk about his ability to read the game and shut down attacks, and the videos back that up.
It’s fun to watch his journey from academy prospect to first-team contributor unfold in real time.
Comprehensive Player Stats
Let’s dig into Chong Qui’s numbers—they really show what he brings to the pitch. By mid-2025, he already played key roles for both Atlanta United’s first and second teams. Remember that historic start at just 17 years and 90 days? That’s the kind of stuff that gets fans talking.
2025 Season Statistics
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 6 |
| Starts | 5 |
| Minutes Played | 430 |
| Tackles | 17 |
| Interceptions | 8 |
| Clearances | 13 |
| Assists | 1 |
You can see right away—he’s making an impact on defense and starting to show more confidence when pushing forward. The coaching staff keeps giving him minutes, and that’s no accident.
If you want to go deeper, check out his player profile on Transfermarkt for the latest updates and a full career breakdown.
