One of the newest members of the 5-Stripes, Juan José “Juanjo” Purata joined Atlanta United on loan from Tigres UANL, a professional club in Mexico. He joins Atlanta for the remainder of the 2022 MLS season.
Purata’s been training with the team since late June. Atlanta United supporters may get a chance to see him play very soon. The center back be available for selection for the club’s next match on Saturday, July 9 against Austin FC.
We sat down with the 24-year-old is from San Luis Potosi, Mexico. He answered 17 questions to help our Atlanta United supporters get to know him better:
Why join Atlanta United?
It’s a club that attracts a lot. It’s one of the most important here in the United States. It’s a club that is known in Mexico. There’s a lot of buzz around Atlanta and it’s a nice challenge for me to be here and to be at this great club. I like challenges, and I think Atlanta is capable of very important things.
Two weeks in, how are you liking the club so far?
I like it even more now because I’m getting along more with my teammates. They’re welcoming me in. I’m liking the city more every day. And I like the club, the training ground, the way they train. I like everything in general.
What’s one thing you like to have with you on away trips?
A book.
All-time favorite book?
Invicto by Marcos Vázquez
Favorite musical artist?
Maluma.
What’s your favorite sport, outside of soccer?
Tennis. My favorite tennis player is Rafael Nadal.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Hard-working, ambitious, responsible.
Do you have a favorite tattoo?
I like all of them, but there’s a phrase that I have on my back. It says something along the lines of ‘things will go well, things will go bad, you will stumble, you will fall there will be grey skies, sunny days but we move forward.
What’s your morning routine?
I meditate and then take a bath with cold water.
Favorite app?
Instagram.
What’s the most treasured possession that you own?
I have this necklace my mom gave me not too long ago. Now it’s my favorite possession.
What cartoons did you like growing up?
SpongeBob and Phineas and Ferb.
What was your first impression of Mercedes-Benz Stadium?
The first thing I saw was the stadium and it impacted me in every way. I had never entered a stadium of this magnitude. It literally left me with my mouth open. Then I saw the guys’ game, and I also really liked the way the team played. I like that way of playing. So, my first day was spent seeing the stadium and seeing them play, so it's a positive welcome. It's a positive first impression I have of this club.
Favorite snack?
I really like spicy snacks. I like the gummies with spice on them. Or chips with salsa or chamoy.
What’s a secret talent that you have?
I draw really well.
Do you have a pregame ritual?
Yes, I always try to step onto the pitch with my right foot, I make a cross on the grass, and I thank God.
Finally, what do you want the 17s to know about you?
Juanjo, above being a player, is a person who’s very responsible, a hard worker, an honest person, a good person, a good friend and a good colleague. On the pitch, I'm going to give everything for this crest, for this institution that trusted me and that is trusting me. For the coaching staff, I'm going to make an effort every day to be able to add to what this group is going to do, to be able to fit in as soon as possible. Fans can be sure that I am going to give everything as I am known for. I’m going to give everything for this club, which is so beautiful, and the people here have already welcomed me so well.
