The 5-Stripes are just days away from taking the pitch at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the first time in 2026, and for many of them, it will be their very first time doing so on matchday. Atlanta United’s offseason moves, spearheaded by Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson and head coach Tata Martino, saw eight new players enter the fold.
Filling in gaps all over the pitch, the new signings will contribute in a variety of ways. Some are in line to be consistent starters, others will be valuable substitute options, some ones to watch for the future. Ahead of Atlanta United’s Home Opener against Real Salt Lake Saturday night, here’s a guide to those less-familiar faces to help up your ball knowledge.
A trio of Argentinos and a Paraguayo
Perhaps the signing that’s made the most immediate impact, Tomás Jacob has settled in well with the 5-Stripes in their first two matches. The fullback-turned-midfielder is a versatile, speedy, tackling machine. Jacob has already won 20 duels, second most through two matches of a season in club history (Franco Ibarra had 24 in 2023). The 21-year-old from Argentina joined the 5-Stripes in December from Mexican side Club Necaxa. He’s also a crack off the pitch, as you can see by tuning into the newest episode of Matecito Martes.
ElÃas Báez is a true fullback with the work rate to boot. Hailing from Argentina, the 21-year-old will occupy a U-22 initiative roster spot, like his teammate Jacob. Martino targeted Báez for his heart and determination on the pitch, and he’s shown it so far. Through the first two matches, he’s started both at left back clocked two full 90s to start the season. Báez should be a consistent fixture in the starting XI going forward.
Noticing a trend of Argentinians? We’ve got another one. Lucas Hoyos is a veteran 36-year-old goalkeeper from Newell’s Old Boys, Martino’s boyhood club. He’s a dynamic and daring operator between the sticks, so don’t expect him to stay on his line. Hoyos joined the 5-Stripes in December and has already spoken about his role as a mentor to the young players in the club.
Atlanta United’s most recent signing, Galarza is just now joining training after his loan deal was complete Monday. The midfielder from Paraguay has played international soccer with Miguel Almirón and brings a mix of experience yet still youthful energy to the 5-Stripes. Coming from Argentinian powerhouse club River Plate, he’s already played 151 professional appearances at 24 years of age. It may take a couple matches for Galarza to get his feet under him and earn minutes, but he’ll be worth the wait.
Two veteran forwards
Joining as a free agent signing, Sergio Santos brings all-important MLS experience to Atlanta. He’s previously played for FC Cincinnati, Philadelphia Union and Houston Dynamo. Featuring in attack, he was a member of Philly’s 2020 Supporters’ Shield-winning side, and he’s tallied 169 total appearances in regular season and playoff matches. From Belo Horizonte in Brazil, Santos will prove another physically imposing option for Martino this season.
Fafa Picault is another forward who also joined as a free agent, most recently playing for Inter Miami CF in 2025. Picault is from New York City and represents Haiti in international play. He’s reached the heights that Atlanta wants to climb to in MLS, contributing to multiple playoff teams and an MLS Cup Champion side last season. Picault is also quite the singer, just listen to this guy’s pipes.
The young guns
Former FC Barcelona B midfielder Adrian Gill is now a 5-Stripe. The United States Youth National Team standout returns to the U.S. at age 20 to seek a new opportunity and growth in Atlanta. Originally from Denver, he joined Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy as a teenager and later earned his first professional contract with the club’s B side. Occupying the defensive midfield role in his preseason appearances, Gill will add competition to an already deep area of the pitch for the 5-Stripes.
Atlanta United 2 fans will be familiar with Santiago Pita. The 18-year-old midfielder and forward is, to say the very least, one to watch. Pita hails from Miami and is Venezuelan American. He’s a skillful, technical player who can beat defenders in a flash. He’s on a Homegrown contract with 5-Stripes after joining the Academy and featuring for the 2s over the last two years. The youngster is just getting started, and he’s working every week in training to prove to his head coach he’s worthy of minutes.
Be there to welcome the new 5-Stripes to the pitch at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. when Atlanta United faces Real Salt Lake. Get your tickets here!
