ATL Standard

Alexey Miranchuk trained with Atlanta United for the first time on Tuesday, providing local media and supporters a glimpse of the club's marquee signing during the summer transfer window.

The latest addition to the 5-Stripes arrived in his new city this past weekend. Tuesday also marked his first time speaking to Atlanta media. Miranchuk displayed quick wit when Doug Roberson of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution asked why he chose Atlanta.

"Because I love hip-hop," Miranchuk responded.

It was an iconic introduction to Atlanta, a city known for its vibrant music scene and history. Miranchuk followed up by naming some of his favorite rappers, including Future, Lil Baby, and Offset.

Aside from his musical preferences, the midfielder explained more about his decision to sign with Atlanta, despite never having visited the United States before.

"I always wanted to know more about culture and to see other places," he said. "It's the right place."

Miranchuk traveled to Atlanta from Italy, a journey documented by the Atlanta United digital team. He credited vice president and technical director Carlos Bocanegra for pursuing him, noting that he was impressed Bocanegra flew across the ocean to meet him and introduce him to Major League Soccer.

"The league is growing; a lot of great players play here, with many more coming," Miranchuk said. "I played four years in Europe and achieved everything that I want... It's the right time, right place to be."

Miranchuk previously played for Atalanta BC in Italy’s Serie A. His resume includes winning the 2023-24 Europa League with Atalanta. He has made 15 UEFA Champions League appearances and 28 Europa League appearances since the 2015-2016 season.

On the pitch, Miranchuk is recognized as an elite chance creator. Among No. 10s and wingers last season, he ranked fourth globally in expected goal contributions alongside notable names such as Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City, Mohamed Salah of Liverpool, Leroy Sané and Thomas Müller of Bayern Munich, and Raphinha of Barcelona.

"He trains with us one time, and you see his quality instantly. Right away," teammate Dax McCarty said Tuesday. "And you know that he's going to come on the field and be a difference maker and be able to help us. The reality is that players like that raise the profile of the league and they make people want to watch."

Miranchuk's tenure with the 5-Stripes began uniquely as supporters attended practice sessions at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground. Their presence created an enlivened atmosphere filled with drums and chants.

"Thanks everybody for coming," Miranchuk said. "It's great to show the fans, show the supporters what's going on behind-the-scenes. It's great."