ATL Standard

Atlanta United has secured midfielder Mateusz Klich through a trade with D.C. United. In exchange, Atlanta United will give up its first-round pick, number 23, in the upcoming 2025 MLS SuperDraft. As part of the agreement, D.C. United retains a portion of Klich's salary budget charge for 2025 and his Designated Player status. Additionally, if Atlanta re-signs Klich to a new contract, D.C. United will receive $50,000 in General Allocation Money in 2026.

"Mateusz is a central midfielder with proven quality both in this league and at the highest levels in Europe," said Chris Henderson, Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director of Atlanta United. "He’s had two quality seasons in MLS since joining the league in 2023. He’s a good chance creator while also being able to dictate the tempo of a game from the middle of the pitch. We believe his qualities and leadership will be a good addition to our midfield."

Klich, who is 34 years old, joined Major League Soccer (MLS) before the 2023 season after an accomplished career in European football. During his time with D.C. United over two seasons, he started 62 out of 63 matches and maintained high durability by playing over 2,600 minutes each season. His performance included six goals and twenty-two assists overall in MLS play.

Before moving to MLS, Klich spent five seasons with Leeds United in England's Premier League following their promotion from the Championship during his tenure there. At Leeds, he appeared in 82 Premier League matches over three seasons and accumulated a total of 195 appearances across all competitions.

Klich began his professional career at Cracovia in Poland before moving to Germany's VFL Wolfsburg and then on loan to PEC Zwolle where he eventually transferred permanently after winning the Dutch Cup against Ajax Amsterdam.

Internationally representing Poland, Klich has earned forty-one caps and participated as a starter in all group matches during UEFA Euro 2020.

Mateusz Klich was born on June 13, 1990, in Tarnow, Poland.

Transaction: Atlanta United acquires midfielder Mateusz Klich from D.C. United on December 20th for their first-round draft pick.

Atlanta United's current roster includes goalkeepers Josh Cohen and Brad Guzan; defenders such as Luis Abram; midfielders including Saba Lobjanidze alongside newly acquired Mateusz Klich; forwards like Luke Brennan among others.