Atlanta United added experienced Chilean defender Paulo Diaz to their roster on Tuesday, securing the former River Plate standout on a free transfer after his contract with the Argentine club came to an end.
Although the financial specifics of the agreement were not released, the deal is set to run through the 2027-28 MLS season, with club options available for each of the two seasons that follow.
Diaz’s previous club, River Plate, is one of Argentina’s premier teams and took part in last year’s FIFA Club World Cup. Because his contract there had expired, Atlanta was able to bring him on board at no transfer cost.
Across his club career, Diaz has appeared in 364 matches in all competitions, contributing 27 goals and 11 assists. His professional journey has also included stints with Al-Ahli of the Saudi Pro League from 2018 to 2019, and Argentina’s San Lorenzo from 2016 to 2018.
On the international stage, Diaz has represented Chile 56 times and has one international goal to his name.
Atlanta’s chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson expressed enthusiasm about the signing. “Paulo is a player who will bring toughness, competition and a winning mentality to our group,” Henderson said in a statement.
Henderson continued: “He’s a center back who has a good feel for the game and understands the moments to be aggressive or hold the line defensively. He brings great experience at the club and international level and fits the style that we want to play at Atlanta United. We’re excited to welcome him to Atlanta.”
The move comes during the same transfer window in which Atlanta United also brought in Paraguayan defender Junior Alonso. The club currently holds a record of 3 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, good for 11 points on the season.
