S. Gregersen Atlanta United Defender 5 Performance and Role Analysis

Stian Gregersen has quickly become a key piece of Atlanta United’s back line, rocking the number 5 jersey and bringing a ton of international experience to the squad. The Norwegian center back landed in Major League Soccer after years battling in Europe and suiting up for his national team. At 6’4″, Gregersen just looks like a guy you’d hate to go up against in the box.

You don’t have to look hard to see why Atlanta United locked him up through 2027—his approach at center back checks all the boxes for what this team needed. Fans have already picked up on his crunching tackles, smart positioning, and that calm, steady vibe he brings when things get tense.

Want to dig deeper into his journey and stats? Check out his player profile or the official team page.

Here’s a quick snapshot of S. Gregersen’s key info:

Name	Position	Club	Number	Height	Nationality	MLS Seasons
Stian Gregersen	Defender	Atlanta United	5	6’4″	Norwegian	Since 2024

Profile of Stian Gregersen

Stian Gregersen plays as a seasoned Norwegian defender for Atlanta United, wearing number 5. He’s built his reputation as a strong center back with years of experience both in Europe and now in MLS.

Background and Early Life

Born May 17, 1995, in Kristiansund, Norway, Gregersen started his soccer journey young. He climbed through the local youth ranks, showing real commitment and discipline.

He made his early pro mark at Kristiansund BK, where his talent didn’t go unnoticed. That success in Norway opened doors for moves abroad, including stints in Norway’s top league and then France.

Before Atlanta United came calling, Gregersen played a big role at Girondins de Bordeaux in France’s Ligue 2. The transfer to Atlanta wrapped up in January 2024 after he put together a solid run in Europe.

You can find more about his MLS move on his Atlanta United profile.

Height and Physical Attributes

Gregersen stands tall at 1.91 meters—about 6’3″. That size gives him a real edge in aerial duels, whether he’s defending or going up for set pieces.

He’s built solidly and plays with a physical edge, which helps him handle tough forwards. He uses that frame to hold his ground, block shots, and win headers in crowded boxes.

His reach and size make him a better tackler and let him pick off passes before they become trouble. Gregersen’s stamina stands out too, helping him keep up his intensity the whole match.

Honestly, his stature sets him apart from your average MLS or European defender.

Playing Position and Skills

Gregersen lines up primarily as a center back. He reads the game well and organizes the back line, usually holding down the right side of central defense.

His best traits? Positioning, tackling, and winning those battles in the air.

Let’s take a look at some of his pro stats:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals
2022-23	Bordeaux	32	2
2023-24	Atlanta United	24*	1

*2023-24 totals may still be changing

Gregersen keeps his cool with the ball, making quick passes to start attacks from deep. Coaches trust him to mark top strikers and clear out dangerous balls.

His blend of leadership and defensive grit made him a first-choice guy at Atlanta and back at Bordeaux too.

Atlanta United Acquisition

Atlanta United brought in Stian Gregersen to shore up the back line with his international experience. The club wanted more organization, leadership, and reliability in defense—and Gregersen fit the bill.

Transfer Details and GAM

Atlanta United signed Gregersen on January 11, 2024, after reaching a deal with Girondins de Bordeaux. He agreed to a contract through 2027, and there’s a club option for 2028.

The front office used General Allocation Money (GAM) to lower Gregersen’s budget hit. That clever move gave Atlanta some extra wiggle room to strengthen elsewhere.

By structuring it this way, they kept Gregersen from taking up a Designated Player slot—a big deal in MLS roster-building. The club balanced his salary cap impact, showing they’re serious about staying competitive and following league rules.

You can see more about the numbers on Atlanta United’s roster page.

Role in the Organization

Gregersen’s main job with Atlanta United is to bring stability and leadership to a young back line. As a starting center back, he organizes the defense, reads the game, and keeps everyone calm in the big moments.

He brings plenty of experience from Europe and Norway’s national team, which helps him mentor the younger guys and set the tone in the locker room.

Coaches rely on his communication and his ability to stick to the team’s defensive plan. His leadership and awareness helped him settle right into Atlanta’s core defense.

You can read more about his leadership style in this news piece.

Initial Impact and Adaptation

Right after joining, Gregersen jumped into the starting lineup for several matches. His confidence, aerial strength, and solid tackles helped Atlanta tighten up defensively.

He adjusted quickly to MLS’s physical style and pace, drawing on his experience in France and Norway. His professional attitude and ability to take in tactical instructions made the transition smoother.

Here’s a quick look at his early defensive stats for Atlanta United:

Matches Played	Tackles	Clearances	Interceptions	Aerial Duels Won
10	24	51	18	33

Gregersen’s steady performances have made him a go-to guy in the back. Atlanta’s scouting and roster moves really paid off here.

You can track his appearances on his club profile.

Club Career

Stian Gregersen has put together a solid career as a defender in both Europe and the U.S. He started in Norwegian youth systems, played professionally in Sweden and France, and now anchors the back line for Atlanta United in MLS.

Molde FK and Youth Career

Gregersen’s soccer roots go back to Kristiansund, Norway. He joined Molde FK’s youth setup, one of Norway’s top clubs, and worked hard on his fundamentals.

Molde gave him his senior debut, and he earned his way into the starting lineup over time. His calm, positionally sound play helped him stand out.

He spent time on loan with other Norwegian clubs to get more minutes. By the time he left, he was a regular starter and helped Molde chase league titles and cup runs.

Club	Period	Appearances	Goals
Molde FK	2012–2021	96	3

Girondins de Bordeaux Experience

Gregersen moved to Bordeaux in 2021 and jumped straight into their back line. Even after Bordeaux dropped to Ligue 2, he stuck around and kept fighting.

His presence and game sense helped him adapt to French football. Over two and a half years, he anchored the defense, even when things got tough after relegation.

Club	Period	Appearances	Goals
Bordeaux	2021–2023	73	2

Elfsborg and Swedish Allsvenskan

Before France, Gregersen spent a loan spell with IF Elfsborg in Sweden’s Allsvenskan. That move gave him a new challenge and helped him round out his skills.

He didn’t stay long, but he made a difference. Gregersen added stability to Elfsborg’s defense, played over 25 matches, and helped them push for a strong league finish.

Club	Period	Appearances	Goals
Elfsborg	2020	25	1

Atlanta United in MLS

Gregersen signed with Atlanta United in January 2024. He quickly became a starter and brought leadership and international experience to the defense.

He’s brought a European calmness to Atlanta’s back line, adjusting well to the MLS pace. Gregersen often gets tasked with marking the league’s best strikers, and his reading of the game has helped Atlanta stay competitive in the East.

Club	Period	Appearances	Goals
Atlanta United	2024–	15*	0*

*Stats as of June 2025.

International Career with Norway

Stian Gregersen has become a reliable presence for Norway’s national team. He brings discipline and tactical smarts every time he pulls on the national shirt.

Senior National Team Debut

Gregersen worked his way up through Norway’s youth teams and then made his senior debut in 2021. That first cap showed coaches trusted his ability on the big stage.

Jumping into the senior squad was a big step for him and for Norway’s defense. He settled in quickly, showing poise even against experienced opponents.

Coaches like his height and physicality in the heart of defense. His club form in France and Norway played a big part in earning that call-up. He’s picked up several caps since, helping Norway in friendlies and key matches.

Category	Details
Senior Team Debut	2021
Position	Center-Back
International Caps (approx)	Multiple (updating)

World Cup Qualifiers Participation

Gregersen has played in World Cup qualifiers with Norway. Those matches are do-or-die for any country hoping to make the World Cup, so every minute counts.

He’s either started or come off the bench as a trusted defensive option. His game sense and ability to keep things organized have helped Norway stay solid under pressure.

He’s had key moments shutting down some of Europe’s best attacks. His positioning and clearances have been crucial in tight games. Gregersen’s performances in qualifiers show why coaches keep trusting him on the world stage.

Performance and Statistics

Stian Gregersen has brought a steady hand and real professionalism to Atlanta United’s defense in the 2025 season. He’s logged regular minutes, chipped in on both ends, and honestly, he’s kept up with the league’s tempo better than some expected.

Appearances and Minutes Played

Gregersen shows up almost every week—he’s played in most of Atlanta United’s games this year, barely missing a beat. The coaching staff keeps penciling him in as a starter, and you just don’t see him left out unless something’s really up.

That kind of reliability? It’s huge for any back line.

Category	Total
Appearances	21
Starts	21
Minutes Played	1,890

His minutes on the pitch show just how much the coaches trust him. Gregersen’s steady presence helps anchor that Atlanta United defense week after week.

You can always check for updated numbers at the Atlanta United official stats page.

Goals and Assists

He’s a center-back by trade, but Gregersen isn’t shy about getting forward on set pieces. He uses his size and timing to make himself a target on corners and free kicks.

Category	Total
Goals	1
Assists	1

Sure, his main gig is stopping goals, not scoring them. But even one goal or assist can decide a tight match. When Gregersen chips in up front, it shows he’s got some attacking instincts and isn’t afraid to take a chance.

Defensive Stats and Adjustments

Let’s be honest, Gregersen’s real value comes in defense. He leads Atlanta United in a bunch of key categories—clearances, aerial duels, you name it.

He reads the game well and cuts out dangerous plays before they turn into real trouble.

Defensive statistics:

• Average tackles per match: 2.6
• Interceptions per match: 1.5
• Clearances per match: 4.1
• Blocks per match: 0.7

Gregersen tweaks his approach depending on the opponent, making mid-game adjustments as needed. That adaptability helps Atlanta stay organized, especially against teams with quick attackers or when the formation shifts.

For more details, check out Gregersen’s detailed Atlanta United player profile.

2025 MLS Season Outlook

With Stian Gregersen heading into year two at Atlanta United, expectations are high for his role in the defensive lineup. The club’s made some smart moves, and the competition for minutes could shake things up.

Team Schedule and Key Matches

This season’s schedule is a gauntlet—Atlanta United faces big Eastern Conference rivals like FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami. These games always crank up the intensity and could make or break playoff hopes.

One match to circle? The home tilt against Los Angeles FC, coming late in the summer. Atlanta’s got a packed stretch in June and July, and that’ll really test the team’s depth.

A few highlight matches:

• Atlanta United vs. FC Cincinnati (May 25)
• Atlanta United vs. Inter Miami (midseason)
• Atlanta United vs. LAFC (late summer)

Here’s a snapshot of Gregersen’s 2025 MLS stats so far:

Stat	Value
Appearances	15
Goals	1
Assists	0
Yellow Cards	3
Clean Sheets	4

For the latest, check his 2025 season stats page.

Squad Depth and Competition

Atlanta United’s defense is crowded with talent—Gregersen’s got to earn his spot every week. The coaching staff mixes veterans and young players, so nobody gets too comfortable.

Gregersen came over from Bordeaux and signed through at least 2027. His international experience adds a lot, but Bartosz Slisz and other defenders keep the competition fierce.

That depth at center back means Atlanta can rotate when the schedule gets tight. If injuries or slumps pop up, they’ve got some wiggle room with allocation money and roster moves. This internal battle should keep every defender sharp.

Take a look at Gregersen’s profile on Atlanta United’s official site.

Key Atlanta United Teammates and Coaching

Stian Gregersen anchors Atlanta United’s back line. His play links directly with the consistency of his teammates and Head Coach Gonzalo Pineda’s vision.

Defensive Partnerships

Gregersen’s defensive partners change a lot—injuries and tactics keep things in flux. Luis Abram stands out for his calmness and passing from the back, while Miles Robinson (now departed) used to handle the physical matchups.

You’ll also see Derrick Williams and fullbacks like Brooks Lennon and Pedro Amador (when healthy) in the mix. Early in 2025, both Lennon and Amador were out, forcing others to step up (Atlanta United roster info). That rotation definitely affects Gregersen’s chemistry and positioning.

Atlanta United Defensive Players – 2025

Name	Position	Nationality	Key Attribute
Stian Gregersen	Defender	Norway	Physicality
Luis Abram	Defender	Peru	Composure
Derrick Williams	Defender	Ireland	Tough Tackling
Brooks Lennon	Fullback	USA	Attacking Runs
Pedro Amador	Fullback	Spain	Passing

Head Coach Gonzalo Pineda

Gonzalo Pineda keeps molding Atlanta United’s style. He wants a back line that moves the ball fast and stays locked in under pressure.

Pineda leans on Gregersen for physical cover and leadership, especially when injuries hit or lineups shuffle.

Gregersen usually anchors the defense, whether Pineda rolls out three or four at the back. The coach likes to tweak tactics based on the opponent and who’s available, so Gregersen has to stay flexible.

Pineda stresses communication and discipline, always pushing players to recover and avoid breakdowns.

The early season injuries really tested Pineda’s ability to build new partnerships (injury news). Gregersen’s reliability has become a rock for the team, giving stability to a lineup that’s always changing.

Notable Matches and Rivals

Since joining Atlanta United, S. Gregersen has faced some real battles in big games. His defending has stood out against top Eastern Conference opponents.

Columbus Crew Showdowns

Atlanta’s clashes with Columbus Crew always draw attention. The Crew, with their MLS Cup pedigree, push Atlanta’s defense to the limit.

Gregersen made his mark in their 2025 meetings, racking up key tackles and clearances to keep the Crew’s attack in check.

Key Stats vs Columbus Crew (2025):

Match Date	Minutes Played	Tackles	Clearances	Goals Allowed
March 10	90	4	8	1
May 17	90	3	7	0

Even though Columbus has recent trophies, Gregersen and Atlanta managed a clean sheet in May—pretty impressive under that kind of pressure.

FC Cincinnati Encounters

FC Cincinnati’s attack is relentless, and Gregersen’s had to dig deep in those matchups. Cincinnati’s speed and movement test any defender, but Gregersen answered with tight marking and strong play in the air.

Atlanta fans probably remember the April 27, 2025 match, when Gregersen tracked Cincinnati’s top striker all night. He won aerial duels and jumped on loose balls to break up attacks.

Defensive Highlights vs FC Cincinnati:

• 5 headed clearances
• 2 blocks inside the penalty area
• 3 interceptions

His poise and timing in these games helped Atlanta survive some serious pressure. You could say his performances in these rivalries have really stood out.

Leadership and Influence

Stian Gregersen stands out as one of Atlanta United’s most dependable defenders, both on and off the pitch. His steady presence, work ethic, and direct communication set the tone at training and on match days.

Training and Preparation

Gregersen takes training seriously. He usually shows up early, leads warm-ups, and pays close attention to the coaches.

He focuses on every detail—defensive positioning, reacting to fast breaks, clearing the ball. That European experience really shows in his daily habits.

Coaches often point out his professionalism and the energy he brings to walkthroughs, film sessions, and conditioning.

Here’s a look at Gregersen’s defensive numbers from the 2024 season:

Category	Stat
Tackles	58
Clearances	142
Blocks	31
Interceptions	66
Minutes Played	2,900

He uses training to sharpen his skills and keep teammates on their toes. Gregersen isn’t shy about barking out instructions—even in a packed stadium, you’ll hear him making sure everyone’s on the same page (Atlanta United news).

Mentorship within the Team

Gregersen commands respect in the locker room, whether it’s from veterans or rookies. He’s quick to offer advice, whether that’s fixing defensive spacing or reviewing film with younger players.

You’ll see him pull teammates aside after practice to break down plays or tactics.

On the field, he organizes the back line and keeps everyone calm, especially when things get tense. He’s generous with praise, building trust and unity.

New players and academy grads often mention how approachable and helpful Gregersen is. His example helps shape Atlanta United’s defensive core and brings stability for the long haul (Atlanta United acquires Stian Gregersen).

Media and Fan Engagement

Off the field, Stian Gregersen connects with fans just as much as he does on the pitch. His media appearances and growing social media give supporters an inside look.

Highlight Videos and Social Media Presence

Gregersen’s highlights pop up all the time on Atlanta United’s channels and league media. Fans catch game clips, post-match interviews, and training snippets.

In a recent media session, he spoke ahead of a big Orlando City clash, showing he’s open with both reporters and fans.

On Instagram and Twitter, Gregersen shares behind-the-scenes moments, locker room photos, and his day-to-day in Atlanta. He responds to fan comments and shares team content, making it easy for supporters to connect.

Sample Media Content Table:

Type	Example Content	Platform
Video Highlight	Defensive plays, match recaps	Atlanta United TV
Interview Clip	Media day Q&A	YouTube, Team Site
Social Post	Locker room photos, training	Instagram, Twitter

References and Further Reading

Alright, let’s dig in. If you want the nitty-gritty on Stian Gregersen’s signing and his background with Atlanta United, just go right to his official club profile.

Curious about his career path or stats? You can find plenty of info on his Wikipedia page. That’s always a solid starting point.

Key Career Statistic Table

Year	Club	League	Appearances	Goals
2024	Atlanta United	MLS	–	–
2022–2023	Bordeaux	Ligue 2	–	–
2020–2022	Bordeaux	Ligue 1	–	–
Earlier	Molde FK	Eliteserien	–	–

Looking for the scoop on Gregersen’s move to Major League Soccer? 90min breaks down his transfer from Bordeaux and what the contract looks like.

Local Atlanta media jump in often to discuss Gregersen’s impact on defense and how he’s adapting. If you want to hear his own thoughts and see what’s changing early in his MLS run, Atlanta United’s got a feature on defensive adjustments that’s worth a look.

Gregersen wears number 5 for Atlanta United. The club expects him to anchor that back line this season.

If you’re a highlights person (and who isn’t?), check out Atlanta United’s official media pages. They’re always rolling out new features and match videos.