Mateusz Klich #43 of DC United
In a move that promises to bolster their midfield, Atlanta United announced today the acquisition of Polish international Mateusz Klich from D.C. United in exchange for a first-round pick (No. 23) in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. This trade marks another significant step in Atlanta’s ongoing efforts to improve their roster ahead of the 2025 season. Klich, a seasoned central midfielder, will add a wealth of experience and leadership to Atlanta’s midfield, solidifying their ambitions to compete at the highest levels in Major League Soccer.
Proven Experience in MLS and Europe
Klich arrives at Atlanta United after two solid seasons with D.C. United, where he proved to be a crucial figure in their midfield. Since joining MLS ahead of the 2023 season, the 34-year-old has started 62 of 63 matches, amassing over 2,600 minutes of play in each of those two seasons. He’s a player with an eye for both goals and assists, having scored six goals and contributed 22 assists across his MLS career, including an impressive 13 assists last season.
“Mateusz is a central midfielder with proven quality both in this league and at the highest levels in Europe,” said Chris Henderson, Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director of Atlanta United. “He’s a good chance creator, while also being able to dictate the tempo of a game from the middle of the pitch. We believe his qualities and leadership will be a good addition to our midfield.”
Klich’s move to MLS followed a distinguished European career, most notably at Leeds United, where he played five seasons and was instrumental in the club’s promotion to the Premier League in 2019. Over his career at Leeds, Klich made 82 appearances in the Premier League, contributing 24 goals and 22 assists across 195 total appearances in all competitions. Prior to his time at Leeds, Klich had stints in Poland, Germany, and the Netherlands, where he won the Dutch Cup with PEC Zwolle in 2014.
International Pedigree
Beyond his club achievements, Klich has also represented Poland on the international stage, earning 41 caps for his country. Notably, he started all three of Poland’s group-stage matches during UEFA Euro 2020. Klich has contributed two goals and four assists for Poland, further showcasing his talent and versatility in the midfield.
The Trade Details
As part of the trade agreement, D.C. United will maintain a percentage of Klich’s salary budget charge for the 2025 season and his Designated Player spot. Should Atlanta re-sign Klich to a new contract in the future, D.C. United will receive $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money.
Klich will occupy both a senior roster and international slot for Atlanta, bringing added depth and flexibility to a team that has been focused on improving its squad in preparation for the upcoming season.
Atlanta United’s Ambitious Roster for 2025
The addition of Klich further strengthens an already solid roster for Atlanta United as they look to build on their success in MLS. With key players like Saba Lobjanidze, Alexey Miranchuk, and Tristan Muyumba already in place, Klich will fit seamlessly into the midfield, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to complement Atlanta’s younger talents.
Atlanta’s roster heading into the 2025 season includes:
Goalkeepers (3): Josh Cohen, Brad Guzan, Jayden Hibbert
Defenders (9): Luis Abram, Pedro Amador, Noah Cobb, Matthew Edwards, Stian Gregersen, Ronald Hernández, Brooks Lennon, Efraín Morales, Derrick Williams
Midfielders (9): Jay Fortune, Mateusz Klich, Saba Lobjanidze, Alexey Miranchuk, Edwin Mosquera, Tristan Muyumba, Will Reilly, Bartosz Slisz, Adyn Torres
Forwards (4): Luke Brennan, Ashton Gordon, Xande Silva, Jamal Thiaré
With Klich in the fold, Atlanta United is sending a clear message: they are serious about making a run for MLS glory in 2025. His vision, experience, and playmaking ability could make all the difference in the club’s pursuit of silverware.
Looking Ahead
As Klich joins Atlanta United, all eyes will be on how the veteran midfielder integrates with his new teammates. With his ability to control the game, create chances, and contribute to both the attack and defense, Klich could be the key piece Atlanta United needs to push their title aspirations to the next level. Fans are eager to see how he fits into the squad and whether he can replicate his success from D.C. United in a new chapter with Atlanta.
The trade not only brings a seasoned and dynamic midfielder to Atlanta but also reinforces the team’s commitment to competing at the highest level in MLS. It’s clear that Atlanta United is preparing for an exciting 2025 season, and the acquisition of Mateusz Klich is a major step toward fulfilling their championship ambitions.
