Atlanta United has added Spanish defender Juan Berrocal to its roster, marking the club’s first loan signing of the 2025 season. Berrocal joins from Getafe CF, a team in Spain’s top division, with Atlanta United holding an option to make the move permanent.
Berrocal, who has spent his entire professional career in Spain, is adapting to life in the United States both on and off the field. He recently married and is adjusting to new routines involving training and travel. Berrocal may have his first opportunity to play at home for Atlanta United when the team faces Toronto FC on Sunday, August 24.
During an interview conducted in Spanish and translated into English, Berrocal shared details about his background and interests:
“My first memory with football was when I was four or five years old in my city Jerez with my dad.”
He described his initial experiences with Atlanta United positively: “Very good. The teammates are good people, the coaching staff and the manager as well. I’m happy.”
If he were not playing football professionally, Berrocal said: “I’d be a golf player.” He has been playing golf for about a year and a half and currently has a handicap of 18.
Describing his style of play, he said: “I like to play well with the ball and be solid in the defense.”
When asked what he cannot live without, he replied: “My wife.” On their recent wedding, he said: “It was fast, with just a little food and our families, but it was very pretty.”
Berrocal also shared some prematch rituals: “Yes, I always step onto the pitch with my left foot first. I listen to flamenco, too.” He emphasized his appreciation for flamenco music: “Yes, I love it. En Andaluz, flamenco is very important.”
Regarding favorite locations in Spain: “I’d say Port Santa MarÃa in Cádiz.”
Reflecting on advice for younger players: “Be humble, but don’t think of yourself as less than anyone.”
In his free time Berrocal prefers simple activities: “With my wife, chill, not doing much. We’ll be at the house or I’ll walk through the city. Playing golf, too.” His favorite exercise is bench press for chest workouts.
He named his father as his idol: “My idol in life is my dad.”
Discussing how he joined Atlanta United: “We had a video conference, and they told me a bit about the club. They told me it’s great club, and both Ronny Deila and Chris Henderson were convinced I would come. The truth is that I’m very happy to be here.”
Berrocal noted that while cooking is not a strong interest—”To cook, not so much”—he enjoys sushi as his favorite food.
On what fans should know about him as he begins this new chapter at Atlanta United: “I come here to defend the badge the best I can.”
