ATL Standard

The countdown to the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season has officially begun for Atlanta United, with the new season set to kick off in February. According to soccer analyst Matthew Doyle of MLSSoccer.com, this offseason could be "the busiest winter of any club in MLS history" for Atlanta United. The club is preparing to hire a new head coach and general manager while potentially filling two designated player spots.

Key dates are lined up for the offseason. One significant deadline is when Atlanta United must submit all Bona Fide offers and decisions on player options to the league office. After a three-month roster freeze, trades with other MLS teams can commence during a half-day trade window.

From December 11-14, San Diego will host the fifth edition of the MLS College Showcase. This closed-door event allows Atlanta United's technical staff to scout top collegiate prospects nationwide.

San Diego FC, as the latest MLS expansion club, may select up to five players from an eligible list during the Expansion Draft. The list will be released by MLS on December 10.

Atlanta United can also engage with Free Agency eligible players who are out-of-contract or option-declined and meet specific age and service year criteria. The complete list of Free Agents will be available on December 10.

The End-of-Year Waivers process occurs in reverse order based on 2024 season performance, with San Diego FC receiving the final pick each round. Players not meeting Re-Entry Process or Free Agency requirements are eligible for selection. This list will also be released on December 10.

The Re-Entry Process consists of two stages conducted similarly in reverse order based on last season's standings. Eligible players include those over 22 years old with at least one service year who do not qualify for Free Agency. Stage 1 eligibility details will be announced on December 13, while Stage 2 information follows on December 19.

Last year, Atlanta United selected center back Derrick Williams during Stage 2 of the Re-Entry Draft; he played prominently throughout their regular and playoff seasons in 2024.

Finally, the upcoming SuperDraft includes three rounds where clubs choose players based on reversed standings from last season's end. San Diego FC holds top selections as an expansion team across all rounds.

As these events unfold leading into next year's campaign under new leadership at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground awaits returning members eager for fresh beginnings come February’s start date ahead!