J. Fortune Atlanta United Midfielder 35 Analysis and Key Contributions

Let’s talk about J. Fortune, number 35 for Atlanta United. This young midfielder has really started turning heads in Major League Soccer.

He brings a rare blend of skill, composure, and that calm passing you just love to see in the heart of the field. Honestly, Atlanta fans have to appreciate how he’s become such a valuable piece in midfield.

Fortune’s journey began in the Atlanta United Academy. He worked his way up, signed a Homegrown contract, and now he’s making an impact with the first team.

At just 22 years old, Fortune has already logged minutes for Atlanta United and even picked up international caps with Trinidad and Tobago. Every time he steps on the pitch, you can feel the buzz—he brings a consistent, steady presence that’s hard to teach.

If you’re keeping an eye on Atlanta United’s next wave of talent, Fortune’s progress is definitely worth tracking.

Want more on his background and career? Check out his player profile at Atlanta United’s official website.

Who Is J. Fortune?

Ajani “J.” Fortune is a young midfielder for Atlanta United. He also represents the Trinidad and Tobago national team.

Born in the United States, Fortune quickly made a name for himself at both club and international levels.

Early Life and Birthplace

Ajani Fortune grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina. That’s where he kicked off his soccer journey.

Raleigh’s busy youth sports scene gave him a strong foundation. He played in local leagues, honed his skills, and got a taste for organized competition early on.

His early years in the States helped him develop technically. Fortune’s family has deep roots in both soccer and Trinidad and Tobago, which opened up unique doors for him.

He’s talked about how family support in Raleigh—and his Trinidadian heritage—shaped his choices on and off the field.

Date of Birth

Ajani Fortune was born on December 30, 2002. That makes him one of the younger guys on his teams, but he’s always played above his age group.

Being born late in the year meant he had to fight a little harder to stand out. His skill and work ethic really set him apart.

By 20, he’d already signed a pro contract and started MLS matches with Atlanta United. Folks still mention his birthdate because it’s pretty wild how much he’s done at such a young age.

Scouts and coaches often point out Fortune’s maturity and poise, especially considering his age.

Trinidad and Tobago National Team Background

Fortune was born in the U.S., but he suits up for Trinidad and Tobago on the international stage. He qualifies through his family, making his national team debut as a teenager.

Since then, he’s become a regular call-up and picked up valuable minutes. Here’s a quick look at his international stats:

Year	Team	Caps	Goals
2021	Trinidad and Tobago	1	0
2022	Trinidad and Tobago	6	1
2023	Trinidad and Tobago	9	1

He keeps earning trust with the Trinidad and Tobago national team. Fans and coaches see him as one to watch as he racks up more experience.

You can find more about his international career on his Wikipedia page.

Atlanta United Career Overview

Jay Fortune has carved out a steady career with Atlanta United FC in midfield. He’s got poise on the ball and sharp game awareness.

His journey started in the club’s academy. He broke into the first team and earned recognition as a Homegrown Player.

Joining Atlanta United FC

Ajani Fortune joined Atlanta United’s academy in 2018. He trained under the club’s youth coaches and quickly stood out.

His progress in the academy set him up for a shot with the first team. He grew more confident as a central midfielder, and the club took notice.

Atlanta United values high work rate and drive, and Fortune brought both. That’s a big reason why he made the jump from the youth setup to the senior roster.

Professional Debut and MLS Debut

Fortune started his pro journey with Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship. That gave him a taste of the professional game before he moved up to Major League Soccer.

He made his professional debut at the USL level, then earned minutes in MLS. He showed composure and adaptability in both leagues.

His first MLS appearance came after he’d already proven himself with the club’s developmental side. Here’s a quick look at some early senior stats:

Competition	Appearances	Goals	Assists
USL Championship (ATL2)	25	3	2
MLS (ATL Utd)	15	1	1

These numbers show a young player finding his way and gaining trust from Atlanta’s technical staff.

Homegrown Player Status

On July 21, 2022, Atlanta United locked in Fortune with a Homegrown Player contract through the 2024 MLS season, plus option years (details). That deal recognized his development in the academy and his value moving forward.

Homegrown contracts let MLS clubs sign local talent directly from their own system. For Atlanta, signing Fortune this way gave them roster flexibility and salary cap perks.

With Homegrown status, Fortune joined a select group of academy products making an impact for the first team. It also opened doors for more MLS minutes and international opportunities with Trinidad and Tobago.

Midfielder Role and Playing Style

Fortune’s game in central midfield is all about balance. He brings steady passing, field awareness, and a growing leadership presence for Atlanta United.

Primary Position: Central Midfielder

Jay Fortune does his best work as a central midfielder. He helps out on both sides of the ball—breaking up plays, intercepting passes, and keeping things moving.

His positioning lets him connect the back line with the attack. That’s so important for maintaining rhythm.

In Atlanta’s system, Fortune often tracks creative attackers and distributes the ball into dangerous spots. He moves with purpose and reads the game well, staying involved in big moments.

That’s the kind of midfield engine Atlanta United needs according to club information.

Passing Accuracy and Consistency

Passing accuracy stands out as a big part of Fortune’s game. In the 2024 season, he averaged an 86% pass completion rate—one of the best among Atlanta’s midfielders.

Check out his passing stats:

Season	Matches	Pass Completion (%)	Key Passes	Assists
2024	19	86	23	2

He keeps it tidy with short passes, making sure the team keeps possession under pressure. He’ll mix in mid-range balls to open up the field, too.

Whether he’s advancing play or just keeping things under control, Fortune’s decisions lead to fewer turnovers and smoother buildup per season reviews.

Leadership on the Field

Even as one of the younger guys, Fortune shows leadership with his composure and communication. He organizes teammates during defensive transitions, calling out shape and pressing cues.

He’s not afraid of high-pressure moments and encourages initiative from others. Coaches and teammates notice his maturity and discipline.

That leadership continues to grow every game. It’s a big reason why Atlanta’s midfield has its identity noted in match commentary.

2025 Squad and Current Roster Spot

J. Fortune has carved out a clear role in Atlanta United’s lineup this season. Let’s take a closer look at his squad spot and how he fits in with the coaches and teammates.

Squad Number 35

Fortune wears number 35 for Atlanta United. As a midfielder, he’s expected to provide defensive cover and support the attack.

Midfielders often set the tempo and link up defense with offense, so his job is no small task.

The 2025 Atlanta United roster mixes seasoned pros with up-and-coming talent. Fortune’s number 35 suggests he’s in the rotation—sometimes starting, sometimes coming off the bench, depending on the matchup.

His flexibility gives the coaching staff options in midfield. Here’s a quick snapshot of his 2025 season stats so far:

Stat	Total
Appearances	15
Starts	8
Goals	1
Assists	2
Yellow Cards	3
Minutes Played	820

Want the full lineup? Check the Atlanta United 2025 squad list.

Head Coach and Teammates

The 2025 Atlanta United squad works under a strong coaching staff. The head coach sets the formation, picks the lineup, and makes the big tactical calls.

For Fortune, coaching direction decides whether he plays as a holding midfielder, pushes forward, or fills a utility role.

He trains alongside key teammates every day. Atlanta’s roster this year features players with MLS and international experience, pushing guys like Fortune to keep raising their level.

Team chemistry is a focus, and the head coach really stresses connection between midfielders and wingers.

For more on the coaches and players, head to the official Atlanta United roster page.

Career Statistics and Achievements

Ajani Fortune has shown he’s a reliable midfielder for Atlanta United. In the 2024 MLS season, he set new career highs in matches, starts, minutes, and offensive numbers.

His steady play makes him a key contributor for both club and country.

Matches Played and Appearances

Fortune hit a big milestone in 2024, playing 27 matches for Atlanta United in the regular season. That’s his highest single-year total with the club.

He appeared as both a starter and a sub, showing he can handle whatever role the team needs. Fortune earned his first career MLS start on June 10, 2023, against D.C. United—a huge moment for him, according to his MLS player profile.

Matches Played by Season

Season	Club	Matches Played	Regular Season Starts
2023	Atlanta United	15	1
2024	Atlanta United	27	13

His role keeps growing, and the coaching staff keeps showing more trust in what he brings to the table.

Goals and Assists

Let’s talk about scoring and playmaking—Ajani Fortune knocked in his first MLS goal during the 2024 season. That’s a milestone every midfielder dreams about, right?

He also picked up two assists, showing he’s really finding his feet as an offensive threat for Atlanta United. For a guy not exactly known for racking up goals, that 2024 strike was a big-time moment.

He’s stepping up in those critical matches, making things happen when the team needs it most. Both the goal and assists mark career highs—proof that he’s growing in the attacking third and building on his strengths since joining the first team.

Key highlights here:

• 1 Goal (2024)
• 2 Assists (2024)
• First game-winning goal (2024 MLS regular season)

He’s getting involved in those game-deciding moments, and you can see his confidence and value in Atlanta United’s midfield rising.

Starts and Minutes Played

Fortune logged more game time in 2024 than ever before, really locking down his spot as a regular. He started 13 matches, which is a clear step up from previous seasons.

He racked up 1,298 minutes during the regular season—the most of his career so far. That kind of trust from the coaching staff says a lot about where he stands in the team’s plans.

2024 Season Breakdown

• Starts: 13
• Total Minutes: 1,298

These numbers show Fortune’s durability and coachability, two things every MLS midfielder needs. You get the sense expectations are only going to keep climbing for him—just check out his official club profile.

International Experience

J. Fortune has carved out a real role for the Trinidad and Tobago national team. He’s made his national team debut, played in big tournaments, and steadily contributed in the midfield.

Gold Cup and International Call-Up

He got his first major international call-up in 2021. That’s a big leap, moving from youth competitions right into the senior squad.

The call-up landed him a spot in the Gold Cup squad, putting him on the field with some of the region’s top players. That tournament gave him valuable minutes against faster, more physical competition.

Facing teams from North and Central America forced him to adapt quickly. These tournaments double as big-time scouting opportunities, too.

Here’s a quick look at his international tournament action:

Tournament	Year	Appearances	Starts	Assists	Goals
CONCACAF Gold Cup	2021	3	2	1	0
Friendly Matches	2021-2025	11	7	2	1

Trinidad and Tobago Senior Team Impact

Fortune means more to the Trinidad and Tobago national team with every appearance. Coaches love his calm on the ball and how quickly he makes decisions—especially under pressure.

He usually lines up deep in midfield, handling distribution and keeping the defense and attack connected. He keeps possession and makes smart passes, which is crucial in tight international matches.

Teammates have mentioned his leadership, even though he’s still young. Fortune’s become a model of consistency, representing Trinidad and Tobago in big moments and showing what it takes to play at the senior level.

National Team Debut Highlights

Fortune made his senior team debut in 2021. He started the match, delivered sharp passes, and took on a lot of responsibility for a newcomer.

He kept his composure in tough spots and helped settle a young midfield. Most guys get the jitters on debut, but Fortune stayed focused from kickoff to the final whistle.

His first minutes included key interceptions and calm possession. Those moments gave fans a glimpse of the steady presence he’d bring to future matches and tournaments.

Key Matches and Milestones

J. Fortune’s rise with Atlanta United is marked by clutch goals and standout performances. He’s made a habit of influencing key moments and showing steady midfield play when it counts.

First Professional Goal

Ajani Fortune’s first professional goal changed the story for both him and Atlanta United. At just 20, he found the net in a tight match, after working his way up through the academy.

That goal showed off his sense of timing and space. It was a reward for his hard work and smart positioning during the attack.

Fans and coaches loved how his finish highlighted his reliable touch and vision. That moment helped cement his place in the lineup.

For a homegrown midfielder, scoring at this level is a huge confidence boost. That first goal was a big contribution for a team still searching for consistency in attack.

Game Highlights and Video

Fortune’s had his share of spotlight games. He made his MLS debut against Charlotte FC in March 2023, stepping up in midfield and looking cool under pressure.

In 2024, he played more in both the regular season and playoffs, earning praise for his smart ball movement and defensive work. The highlight reels from 2023 and 2024 show his comfort in transition and his willingness to press attackers.

Video breakdowns often point out his ability to hold possession under pressure and spot passing lanes in traffic. Coaches use these clips to evaluate his role, and fans get to watch a homegrown talent develop in MLS.

Notable Career Stats Table

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	14	1	2
2024	22	2	4

Game-Winning Performances

Fortune really shines when Atlanta United needs a late push. In a playoff match against Inter Miami in November 2024, he helped close things out by holding possession and breaking up plays.

He’s delivered key passes leading to game-winning sequences, and his energy has helped secure three points more than once. Even when he’s not the one scoring, his ability to control the ball and move from defense to attack often shifts the momentum.

In two league games, he directly contributed to late goals, proving how important he is for managing tight matches. Coaches trust him for late-game tactical tweaks, relying on his poise and quick decisions when the pressure’s on.

For more on his highlights, check out his Atlanta United FC profile and game reviews.

Club Competition History

Ajani “Jay” Fortune has racked up experience with Atlanta United in top American competitions, showing steady growth and flexibility. He’s played under the playoff spotlight, logged key minutes in developmental leagues, and stepped up in national tournaments.

MLS Cup Playoffs and Audi 2023

When the MLS Cup Playoffs roll around, Fortune has been a steady hand off the bench for Atlanta United. His 2023 playoff run showed his composure in tough situations, with meaningful minutes during the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs.

The coaching staff counted on him for disciplined defense and sharp distribution. Atlanta trusted his ability to manage tempo during those high-stakes moments.

In the 2024 playoff round against Inter Miami, Fortune saw more minutes as injuries and call-ups hit the squad. He held onto the ball well and showed tactical maturity, often sliding into the No. 6 or No. 8 roles.

Here’s a look at his playoff stats:

Season	Matches Played	Starts	Minutes	Goals	Assists
2023	2	0	40	0	0
2024	4	2	178	0	1

Even with limited starts, Fortune’s playoff involvement shows the club believes in his development.

U.S. Open Cup Participation

Fortune played a part in Atlanta United’s U.S. Open Cup runs, getting both starts and sub appearances—especially in the early rounds. His job was to patrol midfield and keep the team organized against lower-division opponents.

In several Open Cup matches, his clean passing and smart decisions helped Atlanta advance. He notched his first senior assist in the tournament, setting up a big goal in a 2023 second-round game.

The Open Cup gave Fortune valuable experience against a variety of teams. Atlanta hasn’t repeated its 2019 championship, but Fortune has benefited from minutes and the knockout-game pressure.

Here’s the Open Cup stat line:

Season	Matches	Starts	Minutes	Goals	Assists
2023	3	2	120	0	1
2024	2	0	35	0	0

USL Championship and ATL UTD 2

Before making the Atlanta United first team, Fortune put in serious work with ATL UTD 2 in the USL Championship. Those matches were key to sharpening his game.

He made over 30 appearances for ATL UTD 2, playing as both a holding midfielder and a link-up man. He stood out for his defensive work, timely interceptions, and quick ball movement.

Fortune even wore the captain’s armband a few times, showing his leadership. USL matches gave him the consistency and minutes needed to get ready for MLS.

Season	Appearances	Starts	Goals	Assists
2021-22	34	27	2	4

That experience built his confidence and tactical sense for the next level.

MLS NEXT Pro and Preseason

Fortune’s journey included important minutes in MLS NEXT Pro and preseason friendlies. These games helped young players like him get used to Atlanta’s senior style and expectations.

In the 2023 and 2024 preseasons, Fortune played regularly in scrimmages against MLS and international teams. Coaches watched for tactical responsibility and flexibility.

MLS NEXT Pro matches gave him a competitive but developmental platform. He often played over 60 minutes, sometimes even captaining the side.

This stage helped him fine-tune his positioning, communication, and decision-making. Those performances paved the way for his steady presence in Atlanta United’s first team.

Schedule and Opponents

J. Fortune’s season with Atlanta United has featured some big matchups against top Eastern Conference teams. He keeps playing a role in midfield against high-profile opponents and will face even tougher fixtures as the season moves along.

Recent Matches: FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, Charlotte FC

In May 2025, Atlanta United hosted FC Cincinnati at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Fortune played a big part in controlling the midfield, helping Atlanta push against Cincinnati’s tight defense.

Against Columbus Crew, the match took place at Lower.com Field, a stadium known for its energy. Fortune chipped in with sharp passes and covered a lot of ground against a creative Crew midfield.

The Charlotte FC game brought a fast-paced, physical battle. Fortune went the full 90 and made some key tackles and clearances.

These recent games really show his reliability as a starter, especially against playoff-caliber teams.

Recent Matches Table

Opponent	Venue	Date	Minutes Played	Result
FC Cincinnati	Mercedes-Benz	May 25, 2025	90	2-2 Draw
Columbus Crew	Lower.com Field	June 2025	86	1-3 Loss
Charlotte FC	Charlotte	March 11, 2023	63	1-0 Loss

Upcoming Fixtures

Let’s look ahead at what’s coming up for Atlanta United. The schedule’s packed with matchups against playoff hopefuls and teams clawing for a postseason spot.

They’ll face Orlando City and Philadelphia Union in July. That’s another big test for Fortune’s presence in the midfield.

You’ll see games both at home and on the road. Atlanta’s traveling to Orlando and New York, and honestly, that’s a grind.

These fixtures come fast, so the team needs to rotate the squad. Fortune’s steady fitness and reliability? That’s huge.

I expect Fortune to keep his place in the starting lineup as Atlanta United battles through a jam-packed summer. His performance could tip the scales in the push for a better playoff seed.

Rivalries and Key Venues

Atlanta United’s rivalry with Charlotte FC always grabs attention. Both clubs bring the noise, and the crowds get wild.

Those derby matches really highlight Fortune’s defensive chops.

Lower.com Field, home of the Columbus Crew, is no joke. The Crew’s organized attack and that buzzing stadium atmosphere? It’s a real test of focus every time.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands out as another big venue. Fortune knows this place inside and out.

Playing at home lets him communicate with teammates and play with confidence, especially in those pressure moments.

Ticket Information and Fan Engagement

Home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium always draw a wave of Atlanta United fans. If you want to support J. Fortune and the club, snagging tickets and staying involved is a must.

Buying Tickets and Vivid Seats

You can grab Atlanta United tickets online through the official team site or trusted resellers. The Atlanta United Account Manager makes it easy to buy, sell, or transfer tickets. Prices shift depending on where you want to sit, who the opponent is, and how big the match feels.

Vivid Seats is another spot fans check out. You can compare prices, even for games that look sold out. Electronic and paper tickets are both options, but most folks go with mobile delivery now—it’s just faster at the gate.

Here’s a quick look at what you might pay for Atlanta United tickets:

Section	Typical Price Range
Lower Level	$40 – $150
Mid/Upper Level	$25 – $85
Supporters’ Section	$20 – $60

Sometimes you’ll see special deals for families or groups. Club memberships can unlock exclusive offers, too.

Fan Support and Community Impact

Atlanta United fans bring the energy, no doubt about it. Supporters’ groups like Footie Mob and Terminus Legion pack the stadium with chants and color.

J. Fortune has really connected with fans, especially the younger crowd. After matches, he often sticks around to sign autographs and chat.

The team sets up meet-and-greet events and open training sessions. Kids’ clinics and youth programs keep the next generation excited about the game.

Atlanta United’s community work reaches beyond the pitch. Players like Fortune show up at local events, schools, and charities, building stronger ties with the city. These outreach efforts keep fan participation high and the club’s roots deep in Atlanta.

Player Comparison and Influences

J. Fortune’s made a name for himself in Atlanta United’s midfield, standing out among both seasoned veterans and rising stars. His leadership and style really show you why he matters to this club.

Roster Competitors: Mateusz Klich, Tristan Muyumba, Bartosz Slisz

Fortune faces stiff competition in the midfield. Mateusz Klich, Tristan Muyumba, and Bartosz Slisz each bring something different to the table.

Mateusz Klich impresses with his passing and calm under pressure, thanks to his European experience. Tristan Muyumba brings quickness and a knack for winning the ball back. Bartosz Slisz is all about work rate and breaking up plays before launching attacks.

Player	Strength	Notable Skills	Experience
J. Fortune	Versatility	Dribbling, positioning	Homegrown, MLS
Mateusz Klich	Creativity	Passing, vision	European leagues
Tristan Muyumba	Ball Recovery	Speed, tackling	Ligue 2 (France)
Bartosz Slisz	Defensive Awareness	Interceptions, energy	Ekstraklasa (Poland)

Fortune stands out with his ability to move between defense and attack. His growth keeps him in the mix among these talented midfielders.

Influence on ATL UTD Academy Players

As a homegrown player, Fortune shows what’s possible through the Atlanta United Academy. Young players see him and realize the path from the academy to the first team is real.

Fortune’s journey proves that hard work and smart play in the academy can open doors in Major League Soccer. His approach to training sets the bar for the next wave of talent.

Coaches and staff highlight Fortune’s willingness to learn. Academy players see his career as a blueprint for making the senior roster. This connection between youth and first team keeps Atlanta United’s development pipeline strong.

Media Presence and Recognition

J. Fortune’s impact isn’t limited to the field. His profile keeps growing thanks to media coverage and regular appearances in league content.

Press Coverage and Major League Soccer Media

Soccer media has noticed Fortune for his versatility and key contributions in the midfield. Major League Soccer announced his signing with Atlanta United back in July 2022, putting him on the radar as one to watch.

He’s popped up in several interviews and stories, sharing his journey from youth soccer to the pros. You’ll see him at media availability sessions and post-training press conferences.

In May 2025, he spoke with reporters about his development and how the team is preparing for what’s next. These moments give fans a peek into his mindset and highlight his status as a rising player in the league.

You can catch his interviews and updates on the Atlanta United official website and the MLS player portal.

Year	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Major Media Features
2022	12	1	2	3
2023	20	2	3	5
2024	22	3	4	7

Social Media and Video Highlights

You see Fortune popping up all over Atlanta United’s latest videos and digital content. The game highlights love to show off his sharp passing and gritty defensive work, so he keeps landing in those post-match reels.

He’s shown up in feature videos and interviews, too. The club shares those across YouTube and other platforms, so fans definitely notice.

Short clips of his training sessions or slick in-game skills always get fans talking on social media. One that stands out? The Jay Fortune meets with the media after training video—really gives you a peek behind the curtain at how he prepares.

Thanks to all this content, he’s getting recognition not just around Atlanta, but across the whole MLS online crowd.

Fortune’s presence in digital media keeps his name out there. Supporters can follow his journey in real time, and honestly, that’s what keeps the excitement building.