Hubbry Logo
Thiago AlmadaThiago AlmadaMain
Open search
Thiago Almada
Community hub
Thiago Almada
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Thiago Almada
Thiago Almada
Thiago Almada
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Thiago Ezequiel Almada (born 26 April 2001) is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for La Liga club Atlético Madrid and the Argentina national team.

Key Information

Almada was a member of the Argentina team that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making history by becoming the first active Major League Soccer (MLS) player to win the tournament. He also won the 2024 Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian Série A with Botafogo.

Early life

[edit]

Thiago 'Guayo' Ezequiel Almada was born on 26 April 2001, in Ciudadela, Buenos Aires in Argentina. He grew up in the neighborhood Ejército de los Andes, also referred to as Fuerte Apache, which is known for high crime rates and prevalent drug use.[3] Almada spent many of his early years selling fruit and vegetables door-to-door to earn extra money. Much time was spent with his grandparents while his parents worked.[4]

Club career

[edit]

Vélez Sarsfield

[edit]

At the age of four, Almada played football for a local club, Santa Clara. He was picked up by Vélez Sarsfield at age five, where he made his way through the youth academy. On 10 August 2018, just four months after his 17th birthday, Almada made his professional debut against Newell's Old Boys in a 2-0 victory and scored his first two goals on 5 November in the 3-2 loss against Defensa y Justicia, both in the 2018 Argentine Primera División.[5][6] In October 2018, he was included in The Guardian's "Next Generation 2018".[7]

Almada began his first-team career as a wing forward under manager Gabriel Heinze. He played alongside Matías Vargas, Nicolás Domínguez, Lucas Robertone, and Fernando Gago. In his first two years with Heinze at the helm, Almada appeared in 46 matches and tallied nine goals.[citation needed] In 2020, new club manager Mauricio Pellegrino moved Almada to the midfield, due to the departure of several players in that position. Almada then earned 15 goals in 42 matches.[citation needed]

Atlanta United

[edit]

Signing and 2022 season

[edit]

On 4 December 2021, Vélez Sarsfield announced that it had reached an agreement with Major League Soccer club Atlanta United for the pre-transfer of Almada in February 2022.[8] The transfer, reportedly worth a league-record $16 million, was officially announced by Atlanta on 9 February 2022.[9][10] Almada was unveiled in the club's kit the next day in a welcome ceremony that was held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.[11] His signing was met with scrutiny by Atlanta fans due to the use of a racially insensitive gesture with his eyes during a recent goal celebration; Almada apologized shortly after being asked about the situation.[12]

On 14 February, Almada made his official debut for Atlanta wearing the number 8 against C.D. Guadalajara during the team's pre-season tour of Mexico. Atlanta would end up losing the match 3–0.[13] He made his MLS debut against expansion team Charlotte FC on 15 March as a substitute in Atlanta's 2–1 win.[citation needed] Almada scored his first goal for the club in a 3–3 draw with CF Montréal four days later. The goal would end up winning the MLS Goal of the Week contest for Matchday 4.[14]

On November, he was awarded 2022 MLS Newcomer of the Year after being chosen in the MLS Team of the Week five times, including back-to-back on September 12 and 15, becoming the second Atlanta United player ever to earn that prize.[15]

2023 season

[edit]

On 25 February 2023, Almada scored two goals (one of which was a free kick) in the first game of the 2023 season, helping Atlanta gain a 2–1 win over San Jose Earthquakes.[16][17] As a result, Almada was named MLS Player of the Week,[18] as well as being featured in the league's Team of the Matchday.[19]

Almada is regarded as one of the greatest players in the club's history.

Botafogo

[edit]

On 6 July 2024, Almada officially joined Botafogo, of Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, signing a five-year contract with the club. The deal reportedly commanded a fee of $21 million (€19,5 million) plus $9 million (€7,5 million) in add-ons, in the process, it broke the transfer record both for the MLS, and the Brazilian football.[20] He scored his first goal for Botafogo in a 2-1 win against Corinthians for the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.[21] In this short stint at Botafogo, Almada conquered the 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and 2024 Copa Libertadores, being one of the main players on the team and becoming one of the fans’ favorites, guaranteeing his place in the eternal pantheon of the club’s greatest players.[22]

Loan to Lyon

[edit]

On 19 December 2024, Almada announced that he would join Ligue 1 side Lyon on 5 January 2025.[23] Lyon announced his arrival on 15 January 2025, as loan deal until 30 June 2025.[24]

Atlético Madrid

[edit]

On 15 July 2025, La Liga club Atlético Madrid announced that they had reached an agreement with Botafogo for the transfer of Almada.[25]

International career

[edit]

Almada played for the Argentina under-20 squad in 2019, before featuring for the under-23 squad in 2021.

His debut in the Argentina national team came on 23 September 2022, in Miami, during a friendly match against Honduras.

In November 2022, Almada was officially called up to the Argentinian World Cup squad to replace injured Joaquín Correa, only five days before Argentina's first game of the tournament.[26] He was a member of the squad that ultimately won the tournament, becoming the first active MLS player to win a World Cup.[27] In Argentina's final group stage game, he made his 2022 World Cup debut against Poland. He came on in the 83rd minute as a substitute of Alexis Mac Allister in which Argentina was victorious by 2–0.[28]

On 23 March 2023, Almada scored his first international goal for Argentina at the senior level during a friendly against Panama in his third appearance for the senior team, becoming the first-ever MLS-based player to score for the national team.[29]

Almada competed for Argentina at the 2024 Summer Olympics.[30]

Personal life

[edit]

Almada was reported for a case of alleged sexual abuse after a party in San Isidro, Buenos Aires that occurred on 4 December 2020. A 28-year-old woman stated that she was sexually abused whilst unconscious by Almada, along with Vélez central defender Miguel Brizuera and the former Argentino de Quilmes coach Juan José Acuña Delbene in a house rented by Juan Martín Lucero.

According to the victim's account, which was corroborated by a witness, she went up to one of the rooms in order to have consensual sex with Almada, but drank something that began to make her ill. Then, Brizuela and another woman entered the room and started to do various unconsented sexual acts to her. The victim stated that she had never wanted to include Brizuela, and that the three people continued even though she was screaming that she did not want anything to do with it.[31]

After the investigation became public, his club suspended both him and Miguel Brizuela.[32] A week after Almada was suspended, he was reinstated with the club stating, "substantial modifications were generated by virtue of the incorporation of new evidence, expertise and testimonies."[33]

In February 2021, Almada and Brizuela were charged with sexual abuse with the aggravating circumstances of carnal access and group abuse by prosecutor Laura Zyseskind. Acuña Delbene became a fleeing felon after being charged in December 2020, but was arrested at his home in Quilmes in July 2021,[34] while Almada and Brizuela are still awaiting sentencing by the Argentine court.

Despite the charges, Almada was called up by Lionel Scaloni to play for the Argentine national team in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This decision sparked controversy in Argentina and led to widespread international criticism of AFA's decisions. The victim's attorney pointed out several irregularities in the case because, according to FIFA and AFA regulations, "a player is not allowed to be part of a national team if the team can certify that he has a pending criminal case."[35]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 28 February 2026[36]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Vélez Sarsfield 2018–19 Argentine Primera División 16 3 1 0 4 1 — — 21 4
2019–20 Argentine Primera División 22 4 — 1 0 2[c] 1 — 25 5
2020–21 Argentine Primera División — — — 8[c] 4 — 8 4
2021 Argentine Primera División 7 3 — 7 4 6[d] 2 — 20 9
Total 45 10 1 0 12 5 16 7 — 74 22
Atlanta United 2022 MLS 29 6 2 1 — — — 31 7
2023 MLS 31 11 0 0 — — 4[e] 2 35 13
2024 MLS 17 6 0 0 — — — 17 6
Total 77 23 2 1 — — 4 2 83 26
Botafogo 2024 Série A 17 1 1 0 — 7[d] 2 1[f] 0 26 3
Lyon (loan) 2024–25 Ligue 1 16 1 — — 4[g] 1 — 20 2
Atlético Madrid 2025–26 La Liga 18 3 4 1 — 5[h] 0 1[i] 0 28 4
Career total 173 38 8 2 12 5 32 10 6 2 231 57
  1. ^ Includes Copa Argentina, U.S. Open Cup, Copa do Brasil, Copa del Rey
  2. ^ Includes Copa de la Superliga
  3. ^ a b Appearances in Copa Sudamericana
  4. ^ a b Appearances in Copa Libertadores
  5. ^ Two appearances and one goal in Leagues Cup, two appearances and one goal in MLS Cup playoffs
  6. ^ Appearance in FIFA Intercontinental Cup
  7. ^ Appearances in UEFA Europa League
  8. ^ Appearances in UEFA Champions League
  9. ^ Appearance in Supercopa de España

International

[edit]
As of match played 14 November 2025[37]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Argentina 2022 2 0
2023 2 1
2024 2 1
2025 6 2
Total 12 4
Argentina score listed first, score column indicates score after each Almada goal.
List of international goals scored by Thiago Almada
No. Date Venue Cap Opponent Score Result Competition Ref.
1 23 March 2023 Estadio Mâs Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina 3  Panama 1–0 2–0 Friendly [38]
2 15 October 2024 Estadio Mâs Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina 6  Bolivia 4–0 6–0 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification [39]
3 21 March 2025 Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay 7  Uruguay 1–0 1–0 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification [40]
4 10 June 2025 Estadio Mâs Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina 10  Colombia 1–1 1–1 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification [41]

Honours

[edit]

Botafogo

Argentina

Individual

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Thiago Almada

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Thiago Almada (born 26 April 2001) is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for club and the national team. Born in , Almada joined the youth academy of Vélez Sarsfield at age five and made his professional debut for the club in August 2018 at the age of 17. Over four seasons with Vélez, he appeared in 100 matches across all competitions, scoring 24 goals and providing 10 assists. In February 2022, Almada transferred to Major League Soccer side Atlanta United on a deal reported at $16 million, marking one of the league's highest fees for a young Designated Player. During his two-and-a-half-year stint with the club, he recorded 23 goals and 33 assists in 77 MLS appearances, earning MLS Newcomer of the Year honors in 2022 and MLS Young Player of the Year in 2023 after leading the league with 19 assists that season. He was also named to the MLS Best XI in 2023 and participated in the MLS All-Star Game. Almada represented at various youth levels, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, before earning his senior debut in September 2022. He was included in 's squad for the in , becoming the first active MLS player to win the tournament as defeated in the final; Almada made one substitute appearance during the competition. In July 2024, moved to Brazilian club Botafogo for a league-record $21 million transfer fee from United, where he helped win the . He joined side on loan from Botafogo in January 2025, making 16 appearances and scoring once before the arrangement was altered due to Lyon's financial issues. In July 2025, acquired him from Botafogo on a five-year contract through June 2030, reuniting him with former teammate . In his debut season, Almada has contributed 2 goals in 7 appearances as of 2025.

Background

Early life

Thiago Ezequiel Almada was born on April 26, 2001, in Ciudadela, a suburb of , , specifically in the Ejército de los Andes neighborhood, commonly known as . This area, characterized by its working-class roots and socio-economic challenges, including high crime rates and drug-related issues, shaped his formative years. Almada's family had deep ties to the neighborhood, having resided there for decades, and maintained a strong football heritage; his father, Diego Ezequiel, had played in the reserves of clubs like San Lorenzo and later in , while an uncle featured in River Plate's reserve team. Growing up in this environment, Almada earned the nickname "Guayo" as a child, stemming from his attempts to mimic older kids by saying "guacho." The family's working-class circumstances meant Almada often stayed with his grandparents while his parents worked, and he occasionally helped sell fruits and vegetables for pocket money amid the neighborhood's hardships, including exposure to violence like sporadic shootouts that restricted outdoor play. These challenges fostered his passion for football as an escape, with support steering him away from the "bad path" prevalent in . Almada took his first steps in organized football at age four, joining the local club Santa Clara in 2005, honing his skills in modest conditions typical of neighborhood pitches. A year later, in 2006, Vélez Sarsfield scouts, led by Eduardo "Pino" Hernández, spotted his talent and recruited him to their youth academy at age five, marking the beginning of his structured development in a more professional setting.

Personal life

Almada idolizes , the legendary playmaker, whose style and vision have profoundly influenced his own approach to the game. Despite spending his early professional career at rival Vélez Sarsfield, Almada has openly identified as a fan, attributing this allegiance to his family's support for the club and his childhood admiration for Riquelme. Details about Almada's family life remain limited, reflecting his preference for maintaining a low public profile off the pitch. He comes from a close-knit household with supportive parents and a brother, crediting them for his grounded upbringing in the tough neighborhood of , which instilled in him a resilient and humble personality. Upon achieving professional success, he fulfilled a personal dream by purchasing a house for his parents. In December 2024, Almada married influencer Antonella D'Alotta, whom he began dating in early 2024; she has been a visible supporter at his matches, including the final. His career moves have prompted several relocations, including a stint living in from 2022 to mid-2024 during his time with Major League Soccer's Atlanta United, followed by brief periods in Rio de Janeiro with Botafogo and , , before settling in in 2025 with . Almada maintains strong cultural ties to , frequently returning to to connect with his roots. Outside of football, Almada enjoys playing , a popular racquet sport in , and occasionally watches matches to stay engaged with the sport. He has also contributed to , launching a family-led initiative during the to provide meals to needy households in , which continues today, and funding a community kitchen there to support local youth.

Club career

Vélez Sarsfield

Thiago Almada made his senior debut for Vélez Sarsfield on August 11, 2018, in a Primera División match against , entering as a substitute at age 17 and becoming one of the club's youngest professional players at the time. This appearance marked the culmination of his progression through Vélez's youth academy, which he joined in 2006. Almada scored his first professional goals on November 3, 2018, netting twice in a 3–2 defeat to in the Primera División, a performance that highlighted his early promise as a creative talent. During the 2019–2020 season, disrupted by the , he began to emerge as a key figure in Vélez's squad, featuring in limited but impactful minutes amid the league's irregular scheduling. In the 2021–2022 campaign, Almada established himself as a regular starter in Vélez's attacking midfield, delivering notable performances in the Primera División, including standout contributions in high-stakes derbies against River Plate that helped maintain the team's competitive edge. Playing primarily as an attacking midfielder, he brought dynamism to Vélez's team dynamics, linking play with vision and flair that supported the club's mid-table stability during his tenure. Over his time at Vélez, Almada appeared in 100 matches across all competitions, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists, figures that underscored his growing influence before his departure. In February 2022, he transferred to Atlanta United for a club-record of $16 million, ending his formative professional stint at his boyhood club.

Atlanta United

Thiago Almada joined Atlanta United on February 9, 2022, signing as a Young Designated Player from Vélez Sarsfield for a then-league-record transfer fee of $16 million, with his contract running through the 2025 season. He made his MLS debut on March 13, 2022, as a substitute in a 2-1 home win over , marking the beginning of his adaptation to North American soccer amid high expectations as one of the league's most expensive signings. In his debut 2022 season, Almada featured in 29 MLS regular-season matches, starting 25, and contributed 6 goals and a team-high 12 assists, helping drive Atlanta's attack despite the team's overall struggles. His performances earned him the MLS Newcomer of the Year award, recognizing his quick integration and creative influence, even as he balanced club duties with Argentina's campaign. The following year, 2023, marked Almada's breakout, as he started all 31 regular-season games, scoring 11 goals and leading the league with 19 assists for a total of 30 goal contributions—second only to one other player in MLS history for such volume in a single season. Selected for the , where he showcased his flair against , Almada also proved pivotal in the playoffs, scoring once and assisting in a 4-2 first-round victory over before Atlanta's elimination. Almada's 2024 campaign began strongly, with 6 goals and 2 assists across 17 MLS regular-season appearances, establishing him as Atlanta's central creative force through precise passing and long-range strikes. He remained influential in the Leagues Cup, starting in group-stage matches that advanced Atlanta before their knockout exit. However, on July 6, 2024, Atlanta transferred Almada to Botafogo for a guaranteed $21 million—another MLS record for an outgoing fee, potentially rising to $30 million with add-ons—concluding his tenure after 77 MLS appearances, 23 goals, and 35 assists overall.

Botafogo

Thiago Almada joined Botafogo from Atlanta United on July 6, 2024, in a transfer valued at $21 million, marking the highest fee ever paid for an MLS player at the time. He signed a five-year contract and made his debut in the Brazilian Série A shortly thereafter, quickly establishing himself as a starter due to his technical skills honed in Major League Soccer. Almada's prior experience in the MLS provided him with the versatility to adapt rapidly to the intensity of Brazilian football, though he faced challenges from the league's physical demands and high expectations as a high-profile signing. During the 2024 season, Almada played a pivotal role in Botafogo's historic achievements, including their first-ever title and their third Brazilian Série A championship. In the , he featured prominently in the knockout stages, delivering a man-of-the-match performance in the semifinal against São Paulo with a goal and a penalty conversion, and contributing in the final against Atlético Mineiro on November 30, 2024, where Botafogo secured a 3-1 victory despite playing with 10 men after his yellow card. His goals and assists in the group stages and beyond were instrumental in the club's continental triumph, while his creativity in midfield helped drive Botafogo to the top of the Série A standings with a record of 23 wins, 10 draws, and 5 losses. Following a spell elsewhere, Almada made a brief return to Botafogo in July 2025 prior to his permanent transfer to , contributing to the club's ongoing success from their 2024 double. Despite the short duration of his overall tenure, 's impact elevated Botafogo's profile and marked a successful, albeit transitional, chapter in his career amid the rigors of South American competition.

Lyon (loan)

On 15 January 2025, Thiago Almada joined on a free loan from Botafogo until 30 June 2025, aimed at providing the 23-year-old Argentine with his first sustained exposure to European club football following his successes in . The move occurred despite 's ongoing transfer ban due to financial irregularities, with the loan structured to bypass registration restrictions and allow Almada to integrate into the squad immediately. Almada made his debut for shortly after arriving, featuring in 16 league appearances during the second half of the 2024–25 season, where he scored 1 goal and provided 5 assists while primarily operating as an or winger. He also appeared in 5 other competitions (4 Europa League, 1 ), bringing total appearances to 21 with 2 goals and 5 assists. His contributions supported 's mid-table finish in sixth place, helping stabilize their campaign amid broader squad challenges. Notable performances included a standout display in a March 2025 fixture against , where his creativity and dribbling helped secure a vital away point, showcasing glimpses of his technical prowess despite the team's inconsistent form. Adaptation to French football presented hurdles for Almada, including adjusting to the league's higher physical intensity and tactical demands compared to Brazilian Serie A, compounded by frequent team rotations under manager to manage a crowded midfield. No major injuries disrupted his stint, but limited starting opportunities—only 9 of his 16 appearances from the XI—reflected the competitive depth at and his ongoing acclimatization, resulting in a modest overall impact during the six-month spell. Almada returned to Botafogo at the loan's expiration on 30 June 2025, a brief homecoming that facilitated negotiations for his subsequent permanent move to and underscored the Lyon tenure as a valuable, if transitional, stepping stone in his career progression toward top-tier continental competition.

Atlético Madrid

On July 15, 2025, completed the permanent transfer of Thiago Almada from Botafogo for an undisclosed fee, reported to be in the range of €20–25 million, with the club acquiring 50% of his rights. He signed a five-year extending until June 30, 2030, marking a significant addition to Diego Simeone's squad as the club aimed to bolster its attacking options for and European competitions. Almada's prior loan spell at during the 2024–25 season provided valuable preparation for the demands of European football, helping him acclimate to higher tactical intensity before this high-profile move. Almada made his La Liga debut in August 2025, shortly after joining, and as of November 15, 2025, had made 9 appearances across all competitions (7 in La Liga, 2 in UEFA Champions League), scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist. These included contributions in the UEFA Champions League league phase, where he featured in 2 matches, providing 1 assist while maintaining a 91.5% passing accuracy. His goals came in domestic fixtures, notably as a substitute against Osasuna on October 18, 2025, where he scored the winner in a 1-0 victory that propelled Atlético to fourth in La Liga, and against Sevilla on November 1, 2025, tapping in during a 3-0 win. Integrated into Simeone's disciplined 4-4-2 system primarily as a versatile winger or , Almada has brought creativity and flair to the right flank, often cutting inside to link play with forwards like and . His impact was evident in key matches against rivals, including a substitute appearance in the October 2025 against Real Madrid, where he helped stabilize during a hard-fought draw. Early in the season, Almada faced setbacks with muscle injuries in his right leg and calf, sidelining him for several weeks in September and October, including the initial derby clash. Almada's adaptation to Spanish football's physical intensity and fast-paced pressing has been gradual but promising, aligning with Atlético's expectations for title contention in and the Champions League. By November 2025, he had recovered fully from his injuries, showing improved form as a super-sub capable of decisive interventions, with Simeone praising his work rate and technical quality in post-match comments. The club views him as a long-term asset in their pursuit of silverware, leveraging his international experience to elevate the team's attacking dynamism.

International career

Youth career

Almada began his international youth career with a call-up to the under-20 national team in early 2019, making his debut in a friendly against on January 20. He featured prominently in the in , where reached the final as runners-up, and Almada stood out as one of the tournament's youngest participants at age 17. In total, he recorded seven caps for the U-20 side across friendlies and qualifiers, contributing one goal, including his scoring debut against on January 29. Later that year, Almada transitioned to higher youth levels, appearing for the under-18 and under-19 squads in preparation matches. In 2021, he joined the Argentina under-23 team for the CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament, earning three caps as the side qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, where he made two appearances and provided one assist. In 2024, Almada captained Argentina's U23 team at the Paris Olympics, making several appearances including scoring a goal against Ukraine in the group stage, as the team reached the quarter-finals. Throughout his youth international tenure, Almada amassed around 20 appearances and five goals across various age groups, establishing himself as a creative whose vision and technical skill drew early interest for senior opportunities.

Senior career

Almada earned his first call-up to the senior national team in September 2022 for friendlies against and , making his debut on 23 September against in a 3–0 victory, where he came on as a substitute in the 54th minute. His first international goal came on 23 March 2023 in a 2–0 friendly win over , tapping in a rebound from a in the 78th minute. Almada was included in Argentina's squad for the in under manager , becoming the first active player to reach the final as part of the eventual champions. He made his debut as a substitute in the group stage, appearing for six minutes in a 2–0 win over on 30 November. Almada did not feature in the knockout stages but contributed to the squad's depth during the tournament triumph. In the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Almada has established himself as a regular option, accumulating approximately 11 senior caps and four goals for as of November 2025. Key contributions include goals against on 16 October 2024, on 22 March 2025—which secured a 1–0 away victory and moved closer to qualification—and on 11 June 2025. He has started seven of these qualifier matches, providing creativity from the wings or midfield. Under Scaloni, Almada serves as a versatile attacker, often deployed on the left wing or as an attacking midfielder to offer rotational depth and support for stars like Messi, with his technical skill and vision making him a reliable deputy in high-stakes fixtures. His selections have been bolstered by strong club performances, including his standout 2023 MLS season with Atlanta United. Almada was absent from Argentina's 2024 Copa América title defense due to not being selected in the squad.

Playing style and recognition

Playing style

Thiago Almada primarily operates as an attacking midfielder or left winger, demonstrating positional versatility by also featuring as a central No. 10, second striker, or false 9, while being right-footed yet capable of deploying effectively on either flank. His technical prowess shines in dribbling through tight spaces, where he maintains a success rate of approximately 60-70% in Major League Soccer competitions, complemented by sharp vision for through-balls and high creativity evidenced by consistent assist contributions per game. At a height of 171 cm, Almada's low center of gravity enhances his agility, enabling quick turns and explosive acceleration in confined areas. Almada models his game after his idol, Juan Román Riquelme, prioritizing playmaking and elegant ball control over raw pace, with a particular expertise in set pieces such as free kicks. This approach underscores his role as a classical playmaker who excels in orchestrating attacks through precise passing and feints rather than relying on physical dominance. Among his strengths, Almada is elite in one-on-one situations, leveraging balance and short dribbling to evade defenders, though he exhibits weaknesses in finishing under pressure and defensive contributions, alongside challenges in physical duels due to his slight build. His style has evolved from a more direct, back-to-goal role in his early Vélez Sarsfield days to a fluid enganche in Major League Soccer's open play environments, including adaptations to high-pressing systems at United.

Individual awards

Almada's breakthrough in earned him the 2022 MLS Newcomer of the Year award, recognizing his immediate impact with six goals and six assists in 26 appearances during his debut season with Atlanta United. In 2023, Almada had a standout campaign, securing multiple accolades for his creative playmaking and goal contributions. He was named the MLS Player of the Month for February/March after recording four goals and four assists in five matches. Later that year, he earned selection to the MLS All-Star team, the , and the MLS Young Player of the Year award, becoming the first Argentine to win the award. Following his move to Botafogo in 2024, Almada contributed to the club's triumph but received no individual honors that season. During his 2025 loan at , his performances in , including key assists in important victories, drew praise but did not result in formal awards. Upon joining in July 2025, Almada quickly adapted to , scoring two goals in his first six appearances and earning a nomination for the 2025 FIFA The Best Men's Midfielder award in recognition of his early contributions.

Career statistics

Club

ClubSeasonLeagueAppsGoalsCupAppsGoalsContinentalAppsGoalsTotalAppsGoals
Vélez Sarsfield2018Primera División3000——30
2019Primera División5000——50
2020Primera División511060121
2021Primera División1853181297
Total31641141498
Atlanta United2022MLS306US Open Cup10——316
2023MLS285US Open Cup3152368
2024MLS166US Open Cup2023209
Total741761758723
Botafogo2024Série A1711072253
Lyon (loan)2024–2516100——161
Atlético Madrid2025–266200Champions League0062
Career total1442711228818337

International

National teamYearAppsGoals
202240
202351
202462
202571
Total224

Vélez Sarsfield

Thiago Almada contributed to Vélez Sarsfield's success in the 2021 , appearing in 12 matches and scoring three goals during the tournament as the team clinched the title with a 3–1 victory over Colón in the final. This marked Vélez's first major domestic honour since 2013, with Almada playing a key role in their group stage and playoff campaigns.

Atlanta United

During his tenure with Atlanta United from 2022 to 2024, Almada did not win any major club trophies, though the team reached the quarterfinals of the 2024 U.S. Open Cup before a 2–1 loss to Indy Eleven.

Botafogo

Almada joined Botafogo in July 2024 and was instrumental in their historic 2024 Copa Libertadores triumph, the club's first-ever continental title, featuring in seven matches including the 3–1 final win over Atlético Mineiro on November 30, 2024. He also participated in Botafogo's 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A victory, securing the Brazilian league title for the first time since 1995 with consistent contributions across 17 appearances.

Lyon (loan)

On loan at from January to June 2025, Almada featured in 16 matches, scoring once, but the club won no honours, finishing sixth and qualifying for the 2025–26 .

Atlético Madrid

As of November 2025, Almada has not yet won any honours with since joining in July 2025, with the 2025–26 and seasons ongoing.

International

Almada was named to 's squad for the in as a late replacement for the injured , marking his first major senior international call-up just five days before the tournament began. He made his debut as a substitute in the group stage match against and remained part of the team through their triumphant run, becoming the first active player to win the competition when defeated France 4–3 on penalties in the final on December 18, 2022. Since his senior debut in September 2022, Almada has featured in Argentina's successful qualifying campaign, where the team secured qualification on March 25, 2025, after a 0–0 draw between Bolivia and Uruguay guaranteed their top-six finish in standings. As of November 2025, tops the qualifying table with an unbeaten record, positioning them as defending champions heading into the expanded 2026 tournament hosted by the , , and .

Honours

Vélez Sarsfield

Almada did not win any major honours with Vélez Sarsfield during his tenure from 2018 to 2022.

Atlanta United

During his tenure with Atlanta United from 2022 to 2024, Almada did not win any major club trophies, though the team reached the quarterfinals of the before a 2–1 loss to .

Botafogo

Almada joined Botafogo in July 2024 and was instrumental in their historic triumph, the club's first-ever continental title, featuring in seven matches including the 3–1 final win over Atlético Mineiro on November 30, 2024. He also participated in Botafogo's 2024 victory, securing the Brazilian league title for the first time since 1995 with consistent contributions across 21 appearances.

Lyon (loan)

On loan at from January to June 2025, Almada featured in 16 matches, scoring once, but the club won no honours, finishing sixth and qualifying for the 2025–26 .

Atlético Madrid

As of November 2025, Almada has not yet won any honours with since joining in July 2025, with the 2025–26 and seasons ongoing.

International

Almada was named to 's squad for the in as a late replacement for the injured , marking his first major senior international call-up just five days before the tournament began. He made his debut as a substitute in the group stage match against and remained part of the team through their triumphant run, becoming the first active player to win the competition when defeated France 4–3 on penalties in the final on December 18, 2022. Almada also contributed to Argentina's 2024 Copa América victory, appearing in four matches (one start) as the team defeated 1–0 in the final on July 14, 2024, to claim their third consecutive continental title. Since his senior debut in September 2022, Almada has featured in Argentina's successful qualifying campaign, where the team secured qualification on March 25, 2025, after a 0–0 draw between and guaranteed their top-six finish in standings. As of November 2025, Argentina tops the qualifying table with an unbeaten record, positioning them as defending champions heading into the expanded 2026 tournament hosted by the , , and .

References

  1. https://www.mlssoccer.com/players/thiago-almada/
  2. https://www.transfermarkt.com/thiago-almada/profil/spieler/576028
  3. https://www.transfermarkt.com/thiago-almada/leistungsdatendetails/spieler/576028
  4. https://www.atlutd.com/players/thiago-almada/stats/
  5. https://fieldlevelmedia.com/mls/atlanta-united-gets-mls-record-fee-in-thiago-almada-transfer/
  6. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/thiago-almada-becomes-first-active-world-cup-finalist-in-mls-history
  7. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45744930/atletico-madrid-talks-lyon-thiago-almada-sources
  8. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/ex-atlanta-united-star-thiago-almada-moves-from-botafogo-to-olympique-lyon-on-loan-after-winning-copa-libertadores-with-brazilian-side/bltd7b4b93d8cc51484
  9. https://www.transfermarkt.us/the-next-riquelme-atletico-madrid-secure-thiago-almada-in-complicated-deal-from-botafogo/view/news/457232
  10. https://en.atleticodemadrid.com/noticias/welcome-almada
  11. https://www.transfermarkt.com/thiago-almada/leistungsdaten/spieler/576028
  12. https://www.clarin.com/deportes/futbol/thiago-almada-nueva-joyita-fuerte-apache_0_HkVnk5zIZ.html
  13. https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/club-world-cup/usa-2025/articles/thiago-almada-argentina-botafogo
  14. https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/thiago-almada-argentina-playmaker-man-city/1si536etb6tmx1fnyui4xivyom
  15. https://www.transfermarkt.us/meet-thiago-almada-the-atlanta-star-who-models-his-game-after-quot-idol-quot-riquelme/view/news/434520
  16. https://www.ole.com.ar/equipos/boca/thiago-almada-familia-monumental-senores_0_kqAtPN40SH.html
  17. https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mls/nota/_/id/12837972/thiago-almada-y-en-que-club-jugaria-de-volver-a-la-argentina
  18. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/fuerte-apache-thiago-almada-living-a-dream-with-atlanta-united
  19. https://en.as.com/en/2022/02/09/soccer/1644435766_211748.html
  20. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/atlanta-united-midfielder-thiago-almada-named-2022-mls-newcomer-of-the-year
  21. https://www.transfermarkt.us/thiago-almada/debuets/spieler/576028
  22. https://www.mlssoccer.com/players/thiago-almada/stats/
  23. https://www.atlutd.com/news/thiago-almada-named-2022-mls-year-end-newcomer-of-the-year-award-miguel-almiron
  24. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/atlanta-united-midfielder-thiago-almada-named-mls-young-player-of-the-year
  25. https://www.atlutd.com/news/thiago-almada-giorgos-giakoumakis-named-2023-mls-all-stars-july-19-vs-arsenal
  26. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/atlanta-united-transfer-thiago-almada-for-mls-record-fee
  27. https://www.atlutd.com/news/atlanta-united-transfers-thiago-almada-for-mls-record-transfer-fee-to-eagle-football
  28. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/46605820/botafogo-disputing-21m-fee-atlanta-thiago-almada
  29. https://apnews.com/article/copa-libertadores-final-botafogo-mineiro-dbe253cb384372888fc049d97b0ac8cb
  30. https://www.riotimesonline.com/botafogo-dominates-brasileirao-awards-with-five-players-in-ideal-team/
  31. https://x.com/AlbicelesteTalk/status/1839222922226897006
  32. https://fbref.com/en/players/27f33438/matchlogs/2024/c14/summary/Thiago-Almada-Match-Logs
  33. https://fbref.com/en/squads/d9fdd9d9/2024/Botafogo-RJ-Stats
  34. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6496144/2025/07/15/atletico-madrid-transfers-thiago-almada/
  35. https://www.ol.fr/en/news/thiago-almada-officially-arrives-at-olympique-lyonnais
  36. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/ligue-1/articles-video/official-olympique-lyon-presents-thiago-almada-as-their-new-signing-2025-01-15
  37. https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/football/thiago-almada-former-mls-superstar-embroiled-in-lyon-transfer-ban-controversy/ar-AA1yLRzM
  38. https://www.transfermarkt.com/thiago-almada/leistungsdaten/spieler/576028/saison/2024
  39. https://fbref.com/en/squads/d53c0b06/2024-2025/Lyon-Stats
  40. https://totalfootballanalysis.com/player-analysis/thiago-almada-scout-report-argentina-lyon-2025-player-analysis-tactics
  41. https://www.transfermarkt.us/thiago-almada/leistungsdaten/spieler/576028/saison/2024/plus/1
  42. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6495548/2025/07/20/thiago-almada-atletico-madrid-transfer-connections/
  43. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles/this-is-how-thiago-almada-plays-the-incredible-atl%25C3%25A9tico-de-madrid-signing-from-lyon-2025-07-30
  44. https://www.transfermarkt.com/thiago-almada/leistungsdaten/spieler/576028/saison/2025
  45. https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/clubs/players/250181747--thiago-almada/
  46. https://www.beinsports.com/en-au/football/laliga/articles-video/super-sub-almada-sends-atleti-up-to-fourth-in-laliga-2025-10-18
  47. https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/alvarez-almada-griezmann-seal-atletico-3-0-victory-over-sevilla-2025-11-01/
  48. https://en.atleticodemadrid.com/jugadores/thiago-ezequiel-almada-2025-2026-2
  49. https://www.livescore.com/en/season-stats/thiago-almada/22280/
  50. https://www.transfermarkt.us/atletico-de-madrid/sperrenundverletzungen/verein/13/plus/1
  51. https://sports.yahoo.com/article/two-atletico-madrid-stars-miss-182500093.html
  52. https://www.instagram.com/p/DQodgc8CDxa/
  53. https://thefootballhq.com/atletico-madrid-secure-thiago-almada-a-creative-injection-to-simeones-engine/
  54. https://www.worldsoccer.com/soccer-500-2020/player-profile-thiago-almada-409915
  55. https://www.transfermarkt.us/thiago-almada/tordebuets/spieler/576028
  56. https://www.atlutd.com/players/thiago-almada/
  57. https://www.atlutd.com/news/thiago-almada-transfermarkt-mls-player-of-the-season-award-argentina-olympics
  58. https://www.olympics.com/en/athletes/thiago-almada
  59. https://www.nbcolympics.com/videos/almadas-finesse-shot-distance-gives-argentina-1-0-lead
  60. https://www.transfermarkt.us/thiago-almada/nationalmannschaft/spieler/576028
  61. https://www.fifa.com/en/articles/thiago-almada-primed-to-shine-atletico-argentina
  62. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/argentina-coach-thiago-almada-has-enormous-future-beyond-world-cup
  63. https://bolavip.com/en/copa-america/why-is-thiago-almada-not-playing-for-argentina-in-copa-america-2024
  64. https://www.whoscored.com/players/361732/show/thiago-almada
  65. https://footballtalentscout.net/thiago-almada/
  66. https://www.dirtysouthsoccer.com/2022/2/17/22938900/what-will-thiago-almada-bring-to-atlanta-united
  67. https://www.planetfootball.com/mls/mls-top-dribblers-2024-season-lionel-messi-inter-miami
  68. https://www.pff.com/news/mls-thiago-almada-the-rise-of-atlanta-united-multi-skilled-playmaker
  69. https://the-footballanalyst.com/thiago-almada-player-analysis/
  70. https://www.atlutd.com/news/pressure-playing-like-thiago-almada-defensive-output-statsbomb-data
  71. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/atlanta-united-s-thiago-almada-named-2022-mls-newcomer-of-the-year
  72. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/atlanta-united-star-thiago-almada-named-mls-player-of-the-month
  73. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/atlanta-united-s-thiago-almada-named-2023-mls-young-player-of-the-year
  74. https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/_/id/277208/thiago-almada
  75. https://www.facebook.com/worldsoccertalk/posts/-controversy-at-the-best-awardsfifa-has-announced-the-nominees-for-the-2025-the-/1412100157588468/
  76. https://www.transfermarkt.us/thiago-almada/leistungsdatendetails/spieler/576028
  77. https://en.as.com/resultados/ficha/deportista/thiago_almada/51513/
  78. https://mundoalbiceleste.com/2024/11/30/thiago-almada-wins-copa-libertadores-with-botafogo-against-atletico-mineiro/
  79. https://www.transfermarkt.us/thiago-almada/erfolge/spieler/576028
  80. https://www.fotmob.com/players/955271/thiago-almada
  81. https://www.atlutd.com/news/thiago-almada-added-to-argentina-national-team-fifa-world-cup-roster-qatar
  82. https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/thiago-almada-becomes-first-active-mls-player-to-win-a-world-cup-title
  83. https://www.tsn.ca/soccer/defending-champion-argentina-qualifies-for-2026-fifa-world-cup-after-bolivia-uruguay-draw-1.2276804
  84. https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/world-cup-2026-who-has-qualified
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.