M. Almirón Atlanta United Midfielder 10 Key Contributions and Impact
Miguel Almirón is back in Atlanta United’s midfield, rocking that number 10 shirt, and let’s be honest—fans can’t wait to see what he does this season. After a stint abroad, Almirón signed a designated player deal that runs through 2027, with an option for 2028.
His vision, speed, and creativity have already changed games for Atlanta during his previous years at the club.
At 31, Almirón still brings the skill and energy that made him a star for both Atlanta United and Paraguay. Supporters remember his knack for flipping games with a single pass, a slick dribble, or even a cheeky goal.
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Now, with his return, you can feel the buzz as Atlanta pushes to climb the standings, with Almirón running the show in midfield.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Atlanta United | 32 | 9 | 8 |
| 2018 | Atlanta United | 37 | 13 | 11 |
| 2024 | Atlanta United | 14 | 4 | 6 |
For more on his signing and return, check out Welcome back, Miggy: Miguel Almirón returns to Atlanta United.
Contents
- 1 Profile of M. Almirón at Atlanta United
- 2 MLS Career Highlights
- 3 Playing Style and Key Skills
- 4 International Experience With Paraguay
- 5 Early Club Career Before Atlanta United
- 6 Transfer to European Football
- 7 Recognition and Awards
- 8 Influence on Atlanta United and Teammates
- 9 Legacy in Major League Soccer
Profile of M. Almirón at Atlanta United
Miguel Almirón stands out as one of the most recognizable attacking midfielders to ever wear the Atlanta United kit. He’s earned a reputation for his relentless work rate and creative spark.
He’s made huge contributions to the club’s rise.
Background and Signing
Born in Asunción, Paraguay, Miguel Almirón made waves in South America before heading to Major League Soccer. Atlanta United signed him on December 5, 2016, bringing him in as their second Designated Player.
That move, honestly, changed the club’s trajectory.
Atlanta’s front office wanted his attacking flair and quick feet. Almirón already proved himself in Argentina and Paraguay, so clubs were definitely watching him.
The team saw his potential to lead their attack and connect with fans from day one.
He didn’t disappoint. Almirón immediately picked up MLS Newcomer of the Year honors in his first season.
His arrival marked a turning point for Atlanta United. The club made it clear: they wanted trophies and weren’t afraid to invest in top talent.
Almirón’s move also boosted Atlanta’s profile, both on the field and off.
Role as a Midfielder
Almirón usually played as an attacking midfielder, but he could drift wide and create danger from the wing. He loved taking on defenders and setting up teammates.
His speed and vision made him a nightmare for opponents.
He connected midfield and attack with quick passes and clever runs. Almirón’s energy wasn’t just for show—he pressed hard on defense and helped win the ball back.
Here’s a look at some of his key stats at Atlanta United:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 30 | 9 | 14 |
| 2018 | 32 | 12 | 14 |
These numbers tell the story. Almirón played a huge part in leading Atlanta United to an MLS Cup.
Jersey Number 10
Almirón wore the number 10, the classic playmaker’s number. At Atlanta United, that meant he was the creative heartbeat.
Number 10 is all about responsibility and vision, and fans quickly saw Almirón as the spark in the lineup.
He delivered crucial assists, scored big goals, and never stopped running.
With the 10 on his back, Almirón became the face of Atlanta’s attacking style. His performances in that number set a high bar for future players.
For Atlanta United supporters, the number 10 became almost synonymous with Almirón’s flair and drive.
MLS Career Highlights
Miguel Almirón left a real mark in Major League Soccer as Atlanta United’s midfield maestro. He’s remembered for electric performances, picking up individual awards, and helping the team capture its first championship.
Standout Moments in the MLS Season
Almirón arrived in 2017 and instantly became Atlanta’s main playmaker. In just two seasons, he tallied 21 goals and 28 assists across 62 regular season games.
He didn’t just create—he finished, too.
Fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium watched him dart past defenders and thread impossible passes.
He won MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2017, made the MLS Best XI in both 2017 and 2018, and racked up Team of the Week honors. His style made him a crowd favorite and a regular on highlight reels.
Here’s a quick rundown of his top MLS achievements:
| Season | Goals | Assists | MLS Best XI | MLS All-Star | Notable Awards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 9 | 14 | Yes | Yes | Newcomer of the Year |
| 2018 | 12 | 14 | Yes | Yes | MLS Cup Champion |
MLS Cup Triumph
The 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs were the pinnacle for Almirón in Atlanta. He drove the team forward, making key passes and controlling the tempo in midfield.
In the 2018 MLS Cup Final, Atlanta United beat Portland Timbers 2-0 in front of more than 70,000 fans. Almirón’s vision and energy powered the team to victory.
He was a leader throughout the playoffs, and Atlanta’s quick rise owes a lot to his influence.
For more on his MLS journey, check out his MLS player profile or the Atlanta United news on his return.
Playing Style and Key Skills
Miguel Almirón is famous for his bursts of speed, sharp passing, and creativity in the final third. As a midfielder, he mixes technical skill with smart decision-making.
He’s always at the heart of Atlanta United’s attack.
Attacking Midfield Qualities
Almirón’s biggest strength? He creates chances out of nowhere. With his vision, he spots runs and delivers pinpoint through balls.
He can also pull off clever one-touch passes.
Off the ball, he’s always making those darting runs into the box, dragging defenders and freeing up space. His agility lets him glide past markers and attack the defense head-on.
Here are some of his standout stats with Atlanta United:
| Season | Goals | Assists | Key Passes/Game | Dribbles/Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 9 | 8 | 2.2 | 2.7 |
| 2018 | 12 | 14 | 2.6 | 3.0 |
He’s always in the thick of the action, sparking build-up plays and setting up scoring chances.
Versatility as a Winger
Almirón’s main spot is midfield, but he’s just as dangerous on the wing, especially the right side. He uses his pace to break down defenses and loves to cut inside for a shot or whip in a cross.
When he’s out wide, defenders have a hard time keeping up with his quick changes of direction. He stretches backlines and finds success running at opponents.
This versatility lets coaches get creative, moving him around to maximize his impact.
Almirón often switches positions mid-game, looking for mismatches or responding to tactical shifts. That flexibility has made him a huge asset in Atlanta United’s lineup.
Tactical Influence
Almirón influences games on so many levels. He reads the field, sets the tempo, and supports both attack and defense.
He presses high when the team loses the ball and drops back to help recover it. He’s disciplined, tracks back, and makes key tackles.
His soccer IQ helps him anticipate opponent moves and intercept passes.
By linking midfield and attack, Almirón helps Atlanta United transition quickly. Whether he’s out wide or in the middle, he gives coaches the option to tweak tactics on the fly.
That tactical edge has been a big part of Atlanta’s success.
International Experience With Paraguay
Miguel Almirón’s international career with Paraguay shines a light on his speed and relentless work ethic. He’s earned plenty of caps and played in major tournaments against South America’s elite.
Paraguayan International Career
Almirón debuted for Paraguay, or La Albirroja, at age 21. He quickly became a regular starter, holding down a spot in the lineup almost every match.
He’s played as both an attacking midfielder and a right winger, always bringing energy and pace.
He wears the number 10 for Paraguay—no small thing on the international stage. As of early 2025, Almirón started 57 of his 64 appearances, with 8 goals and 5 assists.
He’s the guy coaches turn to for big games and qualifiers. For more on his international record, check Miguel Almirón’s Paraguay stats.
| Year | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2025 | 64 | 8 | 5 |
World Cup Qualifying Contributions
Almirón has played a key role in Paraguay’s FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns. He’s faced the best in South America—Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, you name it.
His ability to push forward and create chances has kept Paraguay in the hunt.
During the 2018 and 2022 qualifiers, he chipped in with assists and scored a handful of crucial goals. His vision and pace gave Paraguay a fighting chance in a tough CONMEBOL group.
Paraguay hasn’t made it back to the World Cup during his time, but Almirón’s performances have definitely been a bright spot for La Albirroja.
Copa América Participation
Almirón’s played in several Copa América tournaments, including the 2016 Centenario. He’s gone up against top players from all over the continent, using his speed and creativity on both the wing and in midfield.
He’s been a key part of Paraguay’s runs to the knockout stages, delivering important passes and covering ground defensively.
His style fits the fast pace of Copa América, and his technical skills stand out against South America’s best. For a closer look at his tournament highlights, check Miguel Almirón’s career highlights.
Early Club Career Before Atlanta United
Miguel Almirón’s pro journey started in Paraguay before he made a splash in Argentina. His time with Cerro Porteño and then Club Lanús helped shape his mindset and skills as a midfielder.
Cerro Porteño
Let’s start in Paraguay with Cerro Porteño, one of the country’s storied clubs. Almirón jumped into their youth system and, by 2013, he found himself breaking into the first team.
The club handed him regular minutes, and he racked up over 30 league appearances. Cerro Porteño has a big reputation for developing young stars, and they sure saw something in him.
Almirón helped Cerro Porteño snag the 2013 Torneo Apertura championship. That early taste of silverware must’ve been huge for his confidence.
He showed off serious energy, creativity, and quick passing from midfield. Facing older, more seasoned players wasn’t easy, but he adjusted fast.
By the end of 2014, Almirón’s talent made him an essential piece of the squad. You could feel his rise every time he stepped onto the pitch.
Cerro Porteño League Stats
| Season | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2013-2015 | 39 | 6 |
Club Lanús and Achievements
In 2015, Almirón packed his bags for Argentina, joining Club Lanús in the fierce Primera División. That move was a big leap—a tougher league, bigger spotlight.
Lanús gave him a real shot, putting him straight into the starting lineup. And boy, did he deliver.
His breakout arrived in 2016. Almirón became the engine in midfield as Lanús clinched the 2016 Argentine Primera División championship. He made a real difference in the playoffs, slicing through defenses with his vision and dribbling.
He also helped Lanús lift the Copa Bicentenario in 2016. Playing in continental competitions like the Copa Sudamericana gave him even more experience.
Scouts from overseas started to take notice, and Major League Soccer soon came calling.
Club Lanús Stats
| Season | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2015-2017 | 38 | 4 |
For a deeper dive into Almirón’s club history, check out the Miguel Almirón Wikipedia page.
Transfer to European Football
Almirón’s run with Atlanta United didn’t just turn heads—it set the stage for a blockbuster move to England. His transfer lit up the headlines and showed how much MLS had grown as a launchpad for talent.
Move to Newcastle United
January 2019 brought the big news: Almirón signed with Newcastle United for around $26 million. That fee smashed club records and became the highest transfer sum MLS had ever received.
The transfer process involved paperwork, including an International Transfer Certificate and a P-1 visa. Newcastle made a statement, betting on his pace, creativity, and relentless work rate to shake up their attack in the Premier League.
Almirón settled in quickly, grabbing a starting spot under Rafa Benítez. His arrival also shined a light on South American players making the jump from MLS to Europe.
Transfer Details Table
| From | To | Fee | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta United | Newcastle United | ~$26 million | January 2019 |
Premier League Debut
Almirón stepped onto the Premier League stage in February 2019 against Wolverhampton Wanderers. His energy was hard to miss—he pressed high and tracked back, always in the thick of things.
He didn’t score right away, but his movement opened up the field for teammates. The jump from MLS to the Premier League’s intensity was tough, but Almirón’s flexibility made it work.
By the 2022-23 season, he hit top form, knocking in 11 league goals. He even picked up the Premier League Player of the Month award in October after a string of electric performances.
Almirón also got a taste of European nights with Newcastle, including UEFA Champions League matches. By mid-2025, he’d chalked up over 120 Premier League appearances—rock solid numbers for a midfielder.
Recognition and Awards
Almirón dazzled fans and critics alike with his creativity and flair as Atlanta United’s number 10. He picked up team trophies and plenty of individual honors along the way.
Major League Soccer Honors
He wasted no time making an impact in MLS. Almirón landed on the MLS Best XI in both 2017 and 2018, driving Atlanta United’s attack.
In 2018, he helped Atlanta lift the MLS Cup, showing up big in the playoffs. He also played in the MLS All-Star Game twice and popped up regularly in the MLS Team of the Week.
He even grabbed the MLS Player of the Month award during some of his hottest stretches.
| MLS Honors | Year(s) |
|---|---|
| MLS Best XI | 2017, 2018 |
| MLS All-Star | 2017, 2018 |
| MLS Cup Champion | 2018 |
| MLS Team of the Week | Multiple |
| Player of the Month | Multiple |
Personal Accolades
Almirón made the 24 Under 24 list, which spotlights MLS’s top young talent. He was in the conversation for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award thanks to his high-impact play, though he didn’t take home the trophy.
Fans and pundits often voted for him in weekly and monthly honors like MLS Goal of the Week. His rapid rise made him one of the league’s hottest properties before his move to Newcastle.
You can read more about his Atlanta United journey on the club’s official site.
Influence on Atlanta United and Teammates
Miguel Almirón sets the rhythm for Atlanta United’s midfield. His vision, pace, and technical skill ripple through the entire squad.
Leadership and Impact on the Squad
Almirón brought a jolt of energy back to Atlanta United’s locker room. Teammates—young and old—look to him for leadership and composure.
As an MLS All-Star, his standards are sky-high, whether it’s training or match day. He often dictates the tempo in transition, wearing the number 10 with pride.
Players like Tristan Muyumba and Bartosz Slisz pick up on his movement, using it as a blueprint for their own play. His influence sharpens the team’s focus, especially in tight matches.
Younger guys like Will Reilly and Adyn Torres gain confidence from his encouragement.
Miguel Almirón’s Key Performance Stats (Atlanta United):
| Season | Goals | Assists | Key Passes | Matches Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 8 | 10 | 54 | 27 |
| 2024 | 6 | 9 | 48 | 23 |
Connections With Key Players
Almirón’s chemistry with attackers like Saba Lobjanidze and Edwin Mosquera gives Atlanta plenty of options up front. He can drift wide or drop deep, letting the team change shape on the fly.
He links up well with midfielders like Jay Fortune, using quick one-twos to break lines. When he combines with Luke Brennan, defenders get stretched, and chances open up.
International teammates like Alexey Miranchuk have settled in faster thanks to Almirón’s guidance. His understanding of everyone’s strengths pulls the team together.
Legacy in Major League Soccer
Miguel Almirón left a mark on Atlanta United and MLS as a whole. Wearing the number 10, he changed the way teams and fans look at international talent.
Influence on MLS Transfers
Almirón’s arrival set a new bar for MLS transfers. Atlanta United spent big to bring him in from Lanús, and that move changed how clubs use league rules to sign South American stars.
When he moved to Newcastle United for a record fee, it sent a message—MLS could be a real launching pad to Europe. Teams started getting bolder, hunting for young talent who could shine on the field and bring in big transfer money.
Key Career Stats with Atlanta United:
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| MLS Appearances | 62 |
| Goals | 21 |
| Assists | 28 |
| US Open Cup Win | 1 |
| MLS Cup Title | 1 |
Now, clubs across the league try to follow Atlanta’s blueprint—investing smartly and using MLS’s unique roster rules to build better squads.
Perception Among Fans
Almirón burst onto the scene in Atlanta and fans just fell in love with the way he played. You could see his energy and passion on the pitch—nobody missed it.
Supporters in Atlanta cheered for his lightning-fast dribbles and upbeat attitude. He delivered in big moments, especially during that wild 2018 MLS Cup run.
The crowds in Atlanta? They shattered league attendance records. Almirón really helped set that tone and built a culture fans could rally around.
He’s not just a star in their eyes; he’s become a symbol of what Atlanta United wants to be. When he returned to Atlanta United in 2025, the excitement in the city was off the charts.
People still talk about how he feels like part of the club’s DNA. Even fans across MLS tip their hats to him—a real example of a transfer that paid off for everyone involved.
Honestly, he’s raised the profile of soccer in the U.S. in a way not many have. If you want to dig deeper into his story, check out the coverage of Almirón’s return to Atlanta United and his transfer from Newcastle United back to MLS.
