Franchise hero Miguel Almiron returns to Atlanta United

Atlanta United announced the return of franchise hero Miguel Almiron on Thursday.

The 31-year-old Paraguay international helped Atlanta claim the 2018 MLS Cup before joining the Premier League's Newcastle United for a then-record outgoing transfer fee of $27 million.

Almiron returns from Newcastle for a reported $10 million transfer fee, plus add-ons. Atlanta also had to pay Charlotte FC $400,000 in general allocation money to acquire his discovery priority.

Almiron signed a three-year guaranteed contract through 2027 with an option for 2028 and will occupy Designated Player and international roster slots.

"We're thrilled to welcome Miguel back to Atlanta United and know we're getting a top player and someone with excellent character," sporting director Chris Henderson said.

"He's a dynamic attacking player with proven success in our league as well as at the highest level in Europe in the English Premier League and UEFA Champions League with Newcastle. We're pleased to add someone with his talent, experience and competitiveness to our group as we continue to build the roster for 2025."

Almiron collected 21 goals and 28 assists in 62 MLS matches (59 starts) over two seasons with Atlanta from 2017-18. He was the MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2017 and made the All-Star and Best XI rosters in both seasons.

During six seasons with Newcastle, he posted 30 goals and 12 assists in 223 matches across all competitions.

"I'm very happy to return to Atlanta United, a club and a city that has always held a special place in my heart," Almiron said in a news release. "I'm grateful to Arthur M. Blank and the entire organization for the opportunity and I'm looking forward to reuniting with the fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and creating more moments of joy together."

The Five Stripes open the 2025 MLS regular season at home against CF Montreal on Feb. 22.

--Field Level Media