On February 18, 2026, Atlanta United announced the acquisition of Sergio Santos, a seasoned forward, who will join the team under a contract running through the 2026 MLS season, with an option to extend through December 31, 2027. This signing brings an experienced attacker to Atlanta’s roster as the club looks to strengthen its offensive lineup.
Sergio Santos Brings Extensive MLS Experience and Proven Scoring Ability
Sergio Santos arrives as a free agent with seven years of Major League Soccer experience, having scored 28 goals and contributed 14 assists over 169 league and playoff games. His MLS journey includes significant stints with Philadelphia Union, FC Cincinnati, and most recently Houston Dynamo. While with Philadelphia Union from 2019 to 2022, Santos scored 22 goals and provided 13 assists in 89 appearances across all competitions, playing a key role in their 2020 Supporters’ Shield victory.
After his trade to FC Cincinnati, Santos maintained his form by tallying 10 goals and 10 assists in 102 matches, helping Cincinnati secure the Supporters’ Shield in 2023. He capped off his 2025 season with Houston Dynamo before moving to Atlanta United. Originally from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Santos also gained professional experience abroad with Chile’s Audax Italiano, where between 2014 and 2018 he scored 26 goals and added 11 assists in 86 appearances.
Player Profile and Official Roster Details
Sergio Santos stands six feet tall and was born on September 4, 1994, in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. He joins Atlanta United as a Supplemental roster player, filling spots 21-30. Santos’s signing comes at a moment when Atlanta’s attacking core includes forwards such as Luke Brennan, Fafa Picault, Cayman Togashi, and notable midfield contributors like Miguel Almirón and Steven Alzate.
Atlanta United’s current squad features a balanced mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with some players on loan engagements—including Juan Berrocal from Getafe and Ashton Gordon with Chattanooga FC. This depth reflects the club’s strategic planning heading into the new season.
Implications of Santos’s Signing for Atlanta United’s Future
Chris Henderson, Atlanta United’s Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director, highlighted Santos’s valuable MLS pedigree and competitive spirit, stating,
“Sergio has been a productive forward in our league for the past seven seasons and will add competition to our group of attackers.”
Henderson emphasized the positive influence Santos’s experience and winning mindset will bring to the team.
By adding a forward with Santos’s background and versatility, Atlanta United aims to increase attacking options and create more goal-scoring opportunities in the 2026 season. This move signals the club’s intent to build a strong and competitive squad that can contend for MLS honors in the coming years.
