How the American media reacted to Miguel Almiron’s Atlanta debut after leaving Newcastle United
Miguel Almirón has officially made his first appearance since leaving Newcastle United in January, marking his return to Atlanta United after six years in England.
His departure, which saw him rejoin the MLS side for a reported £8 million including add-ons, ended an era where he played a significant role in Newcastle’s journey, including their 2023 Carabao Cup final appearance and another deep run in the competition this season.
Despite not featuring as prominently in recent months, Almirón remained a fan favorite, with Newcastle supporters expressing their appreciation for his commitment every time he stepped onto the pitch.
Eddie Howe reportedly had reservations about letting Almirón go, recognizing his value as a reliable squad player, but Newcastle’s ongoing financial considerations under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) ultimately led to the decision.
The club’s lack of squad depth has become increasingly evident since his departure, with William Osula now being deployed on the right wing when Jacob Murphy is not in the starting lineup. Almirón’s absence has left a gap in both attacking options and work rate, something Newcastle had long relied on from the Paraguayan.
His first game back with Atlanta United came against the New England Revolution on Saturday evening, where he played 69 minutes before being substituted. His return to MLS was met with widespread praise, with American media lauding his immediate impact.
Atlanta United’s official match report highlighted his influence on the game, noting that his speed, ball control, and tactical awareness seamlessly integrated into the team’s attacking play, despite limited preseason training with his new teammates.
The club’s statement emphasized how his positional instincts allowed him to drift inside from the right wing to either receive the ball or help advance the attack.
Almirón’s emotional farewell from Newcastle came after their 2-0 victory over Southampton in January, where he took to social media to express his gratitude to the club and its fans for six unforgettable years.
Within the squad, his departure was deeply felt, with several teammates and staff members showing their appreciation for his dedication. Callum Wilson and Sven Botman publicly praised his work ethic and influence in training, while former Newcastle co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi also thanked him for his service before the transfer was officially confirmed.
The decision to sell Almirón was largely driven by Newcastle’s need to comply with PSR regulations, as the club sought to balance its financial obligations while maintaining competitiveness.
However, his departure was more than just a business decision—it meant losing a player who had given everything for the badge. Though his minutes had been limited this season, he remained a valuable team player, consistently giving his all whenever called upon.
His relentless energy and defensive contributions also made him a favorite among teammates, with Kieran Trippier previously noting how much he appreciated playing alongside Almirón due to his willingness to track back and support the team defensively.
Now back in familiar surroundings, Almirón has the opportunity to revive his career in Atlanta, where he previously became a fan favorite before his initial move to England. Although his first game back was just a friendly, the early signs suggest he will have a major influence in the MLS once again.
His return to the league where he once shined presents a fresh start, and with his experience from the Premier League, he could become an even bigger success in his second spell with the club.