Thiago Almada addressed the media for the primary time on Thursday following his transfer to Atlanta United from Velez Sarsfield.
The $16m circulate is the maximum pricey incoming switch in MLS history, putting him above fellow Argentines and ex-Atlanta United stars Ezequiel Barco and Pity Martinez within the pinnacle 3. But the finances concerned in the deal have been arguably the least noteworthy details about it.
Atlanta United had in the beginning commenced negotiations with Velez within the summer season of 2021, but it's taken this long to finish the deal. Almada changed into implicated in a sexual attack allegation in his local Argentina. Rather than pull out of the deal, Atlanta United negotiated an distinct buy alternative with Velez, allowed the prison process to play out, and accomplished their personal significant background checks.
The 20-12 months-old became subsequently cleared without charge or arrest, permitting the switch to take place. Earlier this week, club president Darren Eales and technical director Carlos Bocanegra held a press convention explaining their due diligence process and the way they were happy that Almada became the proper player to bring to the club.
But it wasn't simply Almada's prison case that left some lovers hesitant to include him as an Atlanta United player proper away. There is likewise the problem of a gesture he made whilst celebrating a goal for Velez in September 2021, posted to the club's authentic Instagram web page.
Eales had previously stated Almada had well-known duty and been 'contrite' about the matter. Though he couldn't talk the prison case, the player himself got here proper out and addressed the matter of his birthday party on Thursday in his opening declaration.
"I understand you may have questions on the investigation but I just hope you could understand that out of respect for those involved, I received't be capable of supply a good deal records," Almada said via a translator.
"Second, I just need to mention about the intention celebration that I did at Velez, I want to express regret. I recognise that it's unacceptable. I've spoken with Carlos and Darren. I recognize what it approach to represent Atlanta, I'm very happy to be here and simply want to give my first-class to the membership."
Questioned once more about the goal celebration, Almada responded: "Yes, as I stated, I spoke with Carlos and Darren and I recognize that it's unacceptable. I want to take gain of this time to once more apologize to all of the enthusiasts."
Eales stated on Wednesday: "He's a young player. He has to increase on the pitch however he's also were given to apprehend and be completely committed to growing off the pitch in phrases of know-how that the USA is distinctive to Argentina. The expectation at Atlanta United with our fanbase is a better one.
