Atlanta United have bolstered their defensive ranks by signing Paraguayan international Junior Alonso on a free transfer, locking him in through the 2028-29 season. The 33-year-old defender comes to the club after spending the last two years with Brazil’s Atletico Mineiro.
Alonso made headlines this summer when he was part of the Paraguay squad that advanced to the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Atlanta’s chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition. “Junior is a hard-working defender who will help add solidity and stability to our backline,” Henderson said. “He’s a natural leader, reads the game very well, and brings great experience from South America and Europe at the club and international level, recently representing Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We’re excited to welcome him to Atlanta.”
Over the course of his career, Alonso has appeared in 422 matches across all competitions, recording nine goals and 15 assists. He has played in top-tier leagues in Paraguay, France, Spain, Argentina, Brazil, and Russia. At the international level, he has earned 76 caps for Paraguay, contributing three goals and three assists.
Atlanta United are set to resume their season on Friday night when they travel to face Nashville SC, returning from the World Cup break.
