Time and time again Miguel Almirón produced an absolute spectacle on the field, from magnificent goals to inch-perfect passes that earned him a number of awards over the course of the season. What better way to celebrate his most recent accolade, MLS Newcomer of the Year, than by counting down our top five favorite Miggy moments of 2017:
5) Cheeky Chip vs LA
While Atlanta United continued to roll in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, so did their number 10. Already leading 3-0 against the Galaxy, Asad fed Almirón who found himself one on one with the opposing goalkeeper, and the Paraguayan made no mistake. In stride and showcasing an incredible bit of skill, he scooped the ball over the keeper’s head to put the icing on the cake of a sweet, sweet victory.
4) Dealing the Double Against Dallas
Those who dubbed him “Miggy” also refer to him as “The Maestro” for his uncanny ability to create and orchestrate the fiery Atlanta attack. And he did nothing but that in their debut match at their new home, setting up the first goal in Mercedes-Benz Stadium with a wicked cross to the far post to meet the foot of Leandro Pirez. He then added to his assist tally on the day with a pinpoint pass to Josef Martinez. A historic day for the club with Miggy at the helm.
3) The Game-Winner Over Columbus
In arguably one of the club’s most impressive goals of the season, Miguel put his movement, pace and finishing ability on full display. After Leandro Pirez made a crunching tackle near Atlanta’s own box, he played an inch-perfect up-field ball to the darting Almirón. The 23-year-old took the ball in stride from midfield to the opponent’s penalty area, held off a Columbus defender and then placed a beauty of a goal in the far side-netting. It was not only galvanizing but game-winning.
2) Snow Magic vs Minnesota
The snow match in Minnesota was a memorable day for countless reasons and Almirón made sure he made his mark. Setting up one and notching two goals himself, the dynamic Paraguayan international proved just how lethal he can be in the 6-1 victory over the Loons, the first win in club history. After roofing a remarkable near-post goal in the first half, Miggy managed to impress even further with a stunning volley from outside the area. Fans will never forget that game and neither will Almirón.
1) Hat Trick Against Houston
Perhaps the performance that launched ATL UTD’s number ten into a sweeping year one campaign where he was voted an MLS All-Star, topped the league’s 24-Under-24 list and ultimately earned the title of MLS Newcomer of the Year. Scoring a hat trick in their 4-1 over Houston, the 23-year-old playmaker dazzled the raving Atlanta crowd yet again with his knack for the spectacular. After his skillful display and passionate celebrations, it’s safe to say he left no head unturned on that May evening.
...and just in case you need a bit more Miggy:
