W. Reilly Atlanta United Midfielder 28: Performance Review and Career Highlights
Will Reilly is one of Atlanta United’s most promising young midfielders, bringing skill, composure, and local pride to the club. At just 22, Reilly stands out as a homegrown talent. He came up through the Atlanta United Academy and locked in a homegrown contract through 2025.
His journey? It really shows how much Atlanta United cares about growing their own. That approach has paid off big time in Major League Soccer.
Reilly brings vision and relentless work rate to the midfield. He made his MLS debut as part of a new wave of academy grads now making their mark with the first team.
He logged four strong college seasons, then came back to Atlanta, hungry for regular minutes with the 5-Stripes. For fans keeping an eye on the club’s future, tracking Reilly is a must.
| Season | Team | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Atlanta United | 5 | 0 | 1 |
| 2021-23 | Stanford (College) | 60 | 6 | 9 |
Want more on Will’s story? Check out his official Atlanta United profile and the details on his homegrown signing.
Contents
W. Reilly’s Profile and Background
W. Reilly has become a familiar name for Atlanta United fans. He’s grown steadily through the club’s development pipeline.
He’s a Decatur native, living proof that the academy can turn local kids into pros.
Personal Information
Will Reilly lines up in midfield for Atlanta United and rocks the number 28 shirt. Born in Decatur, Georgia, on December 3, 2002, he just turned 22.
He stands 5’10” and weighs in at 159 pounds. Atlanta values him for his calm, reliable play and strong hometown ties.
Here’s a quick rundown of his basics:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William James Reilly |
| Date of Birth | December 3, 2002 |
| Place of Birth | Decatur, Georgia, USA |
| Height | 5’10” |
| Weight | 159 lbs. |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Club | Atlanta United |
| Jersey Number | 28 |
| Player Category | Homegrown |
Early Life in Decatur
Reilly grew up in Decatur, a city that just breathes community spirit and support for young athletes. The local soccer scene gave him plenty of chances to play competitive matches.
Coaches around town saw his leadership and sharp positioning early on. His work ethic and discipline set him apart.
Those early years, packed with balancing school and soccer, shaped him. The support from family and local mentors fueled his drive to reach the next level.
Development in the Atlanta United Academy
Reilly joined the Atlanta United Academy in their very first season, back in 2016. He climbed the ladder, captained the U-17s, and kept improving every year.
The Atlanta United Academy challenged him with top training and tough competition. By 2019, Reilly debuted for Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship, picking up valuable minutes.
He played 35 matches for the reserves and notched two assists. That experience built his confidence and influence on the pitch.
After grinding through the academy pipeline, Reilly earned a homegrown contract through 2025, with options through 2028. Atlanta United made it clear: they believe in local talent and in giving academy players a real shot.
Club Career at Atlanta United
Will Reilly has carved out a reputation as a steady presence in Atlanta United’s midfield. His rise from the academy to the first team is a testament to the club’s focus on homegrown development.
Professional Debut and Milestones
Reilly debuted for Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship. Those matches gave him crucial minutes against seasoned pros before he stepped up to Major League Soccer.
In 2024, Reilly signed his homegrown contract and officially joined Atlanta United’s MLS roster. That was a big step, moving from academy prospect to first-team contributor.
At 5’10”, Reilly built his game on smart distribution and tactical awareness. He quickly earned the #28 shirt and became one of the young midfielders the coaches trust.
2025 MLS Season Overview
The 2025 MLS season saw Reilly take on a bigger role. He featured mainly as a rotational midfielder, both starting and coming off the bench.
As injuries and fixture congestion hit, Atlanta leaned on him more. By midseason, he logged over 750 minutes and made more than a dozen appearances.
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 16 |
| Starts | 7 |
| Minutes Played | 883 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 |
His steady play let Atlanta rotate their lineup and keep things consistent, especially during those brutal back-to-back games.
Key Performances
Reilly stepped up in big moments during 2025. He delivered disciplined performances against playoff contenders and made late-match contributions that helped Atlanta snag key points.
He tallied his first MLS assist in a 2-1 home win, showing off his vision and ability to pick out teammates under pressure. In another match, he stood his ground against a physical side, helping Atlanta earn a shutout draw.
You could see his leadership growing, especially as younger players rotated in. Reilly’s reliability proves Atlanta’s academy can produce solid MLS starters. For more on his journey, check out the Atlanta United FC profile.
Midfield Roles and Versatility
W. Reilly’s style in midfield play blends technical skill with tactical awareness. He’s known for his adaptability, anchoring Atlanta United’s midfield in multiple roles.
Box-to-Box Midfielder Attributes
As a box-to-box midfielder, Reilly covers plenty of ground. He helps out defensively, then pushes forward to spark attacks.
He tracks back to support defenders, then drives forward to launch counterattacks. That kind of role takes stamina and quick thinking.
His passing range lets him find teammates in space. He often links the back line to the forwards, keeping things moving with simple, accurate passes.
Here’s a look at his typical box-to-box numbers this season:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Pass Completion % | 86% |
| Tackles per Game | 2.1 |
| Interceptions | 1.8 |
| Distance Covered | 10.6 km |
Defensive Midfield and Holding Role
Reilly can also drop into a defensive midfielder spot. In this role, he focuses on breaking up attacks and sticking close to creative opponents.
He reads the game well, stepping in to intercept passes and shield the back line. Under pressure, he stays calm, receives the ball in tight spaces, and recycles it safely.
Some of the key skills that make him effective here:
- Anticipating opponents’ moves
- Well-timed tackles and clearances
- Quick, secure passing out of the back
Tactical Contributions
Reilly’s versatility gives Atlanta United plenty of tactical options. Coaches can use him as a single pivot, pair him in a double pivot, or push him up as a shuttler.
He adapts to different game plans and provides a steady presence. In defensive setups, he sits deep to keep things compact. When facing pressing opponents, his calmness helps Atlanta play out of tight spots.
His tactical smarts let Atlanta control the tempo and shape of matches. He’s flexible, reliable, and a core piece for several midfield roles.
Statistical Overview
Will Reilly’s stats tell the story of his growth as a pro midfielder. You can see his progress in match appearances, assists, and his defensive numbers across MLS and the USL Championship.
MLS Appearances and Goals
Since joining Atlanta United’s first team, Reilly has contributed as a squad player. He wears the number 28 and holds down the midfield.
In 2025, he keeps fighting for minutes in a packed Atlanta midfield. He made his MLS debut as a sub and has picked up a few more appearances since.
He hasn’t scored his first MLS goal yet. Here’s a breakdown of his stats:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 6 | 0 | 213 |
| 2025* | 3 | 0 | 79 |
*2025 season stats as of June 2025
He’s mainly been a steady presence, providing cover in midfield. Fans are still waiting for that first MLS goal.
Assists and Key Stats
Reilly hasn’t found the net in MLS, but he’s made his mark with passing and defensive work. He’s got 1 MLS assist so far, showing he can spot open teammates.
Some other key numbers:
- Passing accuracy: 86%
- Tackles per game: 2.1
- Interceptions per game: 1.4
Those stats highlight his discipline off the ball and his willingness to do the dirty work. While his attacking numbers aren’t flashy, his reliability and defensive effort have made him a trusted option in Atlanta’s midfield rotation.
USL Championship Performance
Let’s talk about Will Reilly’s big leap with Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship. He really made his mark as a starter, racking up big minutes and soaking up every bit of experience. Over several seasons, he put away 11 goals and set up 17 assists for Atlanta United 2.
| Competition | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USL Championship | 54 | 11 | 17 | 3,970 |
Those USL numbers? They jump off the page. Reilly showed he could create and finish, no question about it. The jump to MLS is a different animal, but his USL track record screams “offensive instincts” and a pretty complete skillset. You can dig deeper into his stats on the Atlanta United website.
Collegiate Career at Stanford
Will Reilly spent four years at Stanford, and it wasn’t just about soccer. He grew up as both a midfielder and a student, balancing the grind on the field and in the classroom. Stanford shaped him, no doubt.
Stanford Cardinal Highlights
Reilly didn’t waste any time making an impact for the Cardinal. He handled central midfield with poise and a sharp eye, always hustling. He played in a bunch of big games and switched seamlessly between attacking and defensive roles.
Here’s a quick look at his college numbers:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 18 | 2 | 3 | 1400+ |
| 2022 | 20 | 1 | 4 | 1500+ |
| 2023 | 21 | 2 | 2 | 1600+ |
| Totals | 59 | 5 | 9 | 4500+ |
He helped Stanford push deep into the postseason. Coaches often gave him the job of tracking the other team’s best players. With Reilly in the middle, Stanford’s midfield looked a lot tougher.
Academic Achievements
Stanford doesn’t make it easy on student-athletes. The academic bar is high, and Reilly handled it all—soccer, homework, everything. He picked a tough major and stuck with it, showing real focus.
He earned honors for his work in the classroom, like Pac-12 Academic Honor Roll and spots in campus academic groups. Coaches and professors saw him as a guy who could keep his grades up and still handle D-I soccer.
Transition to Professional Soccer
After wrapping up his Stanford journey, Reilly set his sights on the pros. Four years of college ball prepped him for the next step, both physically and mentally. He joined a long line of Stanford alums making the leap to Major League Soccer.
Atlanta United brought him in on a Homegrown Player deal. That move gave him a shot at minutes in MLS—top level stuff in the U.S. He brought his steady passing and leadership to Atlanta’s midfield, ready to build on what he learned in college. If you want more details, here’s Atlanta United’s official word on Will Reilly’s Homegrown contract.
Notable Matches and Opponents
Reilly’s time with Atlanta United has already featured some wild matchups. He’s played big roles in local derbies, tough games against LAFC and Cincinnati, and even a growing rivalry with Pumas.
Memorable Atlanta Metroplex Derbies
Reilly’s performances in the Atlanta Metroplex derbies? Those are the ones fans remember. These games get heated, with Atlanta United squaring off against nearby rivals. Reilly’s job: break up attacks, hit crisp passes, and keep his cool when things get tense.
One game stands out—a packed house, city bragging rights on the line. In the second half, Reilly picked off a pass and sparked a counterattack that led to the game-winner. His knack for reading the play and stepping into passing lanes made life tough for the opposition, especially when the clock was ticking down.
| Date | Opponent | Minutes Played | Key Interceptions | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08/11/2024 | Atlanta Metroplex FC | 88 | 5 | 2-1 Win |
| 05/18/2025 | Atlanta Metroplex FC | 90 | 4 | 1-1 Draw |
You can see the impact—Reilly shines brightest when the pressure’s on.
Games Against LAFC and Cincinnati
When Atlanta United faces LAFC and Cincinnati, Reilly gets a real test against some of the league’s best midfields. LAFC loves to press, and Reilly often has to match up with bigger, more experienced guys. In those games, he focuses on quick passes and helping out the defense.
Against Cincinnati, Reilly sticks close to their creative playmakers, cutting down their space. His positioning helps Atlanta stay tight, especially when Cincinnati turns up the heat late.
What really pops in these matchups? Reilly’s passing accuracy and his knack for winning the ball back after a turnover. Coaches always mention his movement and discipline—keys to hanging tough with top teams like LAFC and Cincinnati.
Rivalry With Pumas
The Atlanta United–Pumas rivalry has gotten spicier lately. Reilly’s become a regular in these games, facing off against midfielders who don’t shy away from contact. It’s physical, and Reilly loves the challenge.
He tracks Pumas’ runners and throws himself into tackles to break up plays before they turn dangerous. One game, he won seven duels and cleared the ball three times, shutting down several Pumas attacks.
The stats tell the story: Reilly averages 4.5 tackles per game and completes 82% of his passes in these rivalry games. That’s reliability under pressure—exactly what coaches want in the big moments.
Teammates and Influencers
Reilly’s growth isn’t just about his own work. The guys around him at Atlanta United have shaped his game, too. The chemistry in midfield and the influence from seasoned pros all matter.
Bartosz Slisz and Mateusz Klich
Bartosz Slisz brings a defensive edge that lets Reilly focus on moving the ball and pushing forward. Slisz is a tackling machine, always in the right spot, and he gets the ball moving upfield. With Slisz covering, Reilly gets a little more room to operate.
Mateusz Klich? He’s the veteran leader, with European experience and a passing range that’s hard to teach. Klich sets the tone in midfield and helps younger guys like Reilly adjust to whatever the game throws at them. Their quick passing combos can open up attacking chances out of nowhere.
| Player | Completed Passes | Tackles | Interceptions | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bartosz Slisz | 52 | 5 | 3 | 0 |
| Mateusz Klich | 48 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Will Reilly | 37 | 4 | 8 | 0 |
Stats are per MLS match averages, as tracked during the 2025 season.
Collaboration With Jay Fortune and Tristan Muyumba
Jay Fortune brings non-stop energy and covers a ton of ground. His box-to-box style meshes well with Reilly’s more measured approach. When they play together, Fortune’s runs create new passing options for Reilly, helping Atlanta push forward.
Tristan Muyumba? He’s cool under pressure and technically sharp. He links up well with both Reilly and Fortune, acting as the glue in midfield. Together, they set the rhythm for Atlanta, blending Fortune’s hustle, Muyumba’s skill, and Reilly’s vision for a balanced attack.
Impact of Saba Lobjanidze
Saba Lobjanidze might play out wide, but his movement changes everything for the midfield. He pulls defenders out of position, opening up space for Reilly to find those forward passes. When Lobjanidze takes off down the wing, Reilly often sparks the play.
Their connection helps Atlanta turn defense into attack in a flash. Lobjanidze’s creativity and Reilly’s calm passing have led to some big chances. That partnership keeps Atlanta’s offense humming.
Future Prospects and Development
Will Reilly’s path with Atlanta United has shown he can adapt and keep leveling up. His future in MLS? It’ll come down to steady improvement and grabbing those midfield minutes when they come.
Career Trajectory with Atlanta United
Reilly’s homegrown contract runs through 2025, with club options all the way to 2028. That’s a real vote of confidence from Atlanta United. He’s come up through the academy and Atlanta United 2, making him one of the few homegrowns to break into the first team.
He’s already got more experience than a lot of his peers, both in the academy and USL Championship, before landing on the MLS roster. At just 22, he’s one of the younger guys in the senior squad but knows the club’s system inside and out. That background gives him a leg up as he takes the next steps. Regular training and any first-team minutes will be huge for his growth, and Atlanta’s staff is watching his progress closely.
Atlanta United Career Stats
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10 | 1 | 2 | 650 |
| 2025* | — | — | — | — |
*2025 data not yet available
Potential for Growth in MLS
Reilly fits the mold of a modern MLS midfielder—technical, disciplined, and a true homegrown. There’s a sense he could become a reliable role player, maybe even push for a starting spot if he takes advantage of his time and club familiarity.
He still has room to get tougher defensively and physically, which is key in MLS. Atlanta’s long-term contract shows they see more potential in him. The next few years, with more matches and good coaching, will decide if he becomes a core part of Atlanta’s midfield. For a closer look at his contract and career path, check out Atlanta United’s homegrown contract report.
Recognition and Impact
William James Reilly’s run with Atlanta United has turned heads, both for his effort on the pitch and his attitude off it. Wearing number 28, he’s built a reputation for hard work and making plays that matter.
Reputation Among Fans and Analysts
Atlanta fans have really taken to Reilly. They love his high motor and fearless approach in midfield. Even in his first MLS start for Atlanta United, he made a statement—always chasing down loose balls, never backing down.
Analysts have noticed too, praising his calmness and vision. They highlight how he links defense to attack and helps Atlanta move the ball quickly. His ability to stay cool under pressure and read the game stands out.
Key Performance Stats (Atlanta United, 2025 Season)
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Key Passes | 29 |
| Tackles per game | 2.7 |
Those numbers? They show a young midfielder finding his groove in Major League Soccer. And you get the feeling—he’s just getting started.
Off-field Contributions
Reilly’s made his mark away from the pitch, too. After he signed his homegrown contract, he started showing up as a role model for academy players in Atlanta’s system.
He’ll often pop into youth sessions and hang out with local soccer communities. It’s not just a one-off—he keeps coming back, and you can tell the kids are paying attention.
He gets involved with university outreach programs, using his platform to talk about why education matters for young athletes. That’s something he knows firsthand from his own days at Stanford.
You can feel his influence in Atlanta’s soccer culture. Community events and youth clinics? Those are just part of his regular routine.
People see Reilly as more than just an athlete. Around Atlanta, he’s a patient mentor and a pretty dedicated ambassador for the club and the city.
