The FIFA World Cup has officially taken over Atlanta, but for Atlanta United, the global tournament brings a quiet roster transition and a historically long road trip.
The club confirmed this week that defender Juan Berrocal and midfielder Matías Galarza will officially depart the team when their loan agreements expire on June 30, 2026. The departures come at a strange time for the franchise, which is currently in the middle of a month-long MLS schedule pause while Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosts the world’s biggest soccer matches.
Loan departures shift depth
Both Berrocal and Galarza were brought in on temporary terms to shore up depth, but the club has opted not to trigger purchase options or negotiate loan extensions.
- Juan Berrocal: The Spanish central defender will return to Getafe CF in La Liga. Berrocal joined Atlanta in late 2025 and made 14 appearances, offering defensive reliability but ultimately failing to cement a permanent starting spot.
- Matías Galarza: The Paraguayan midfielder returns to Argentine powerhouse River Plate. Galarza’s tenure in Atlanta was marked by flashes of creativity, but finding consistent minutes in a crowded midfield proved difficult.
With the MLS secondary transfer window set to open in mid-July, Atlanta’s front office is expected to use the freed-up cap space and international roster slots to target permanent signings.
World Cup stadium takeover forces road stretch
While the front office works on roster restructuring, the team itself has been displaced from its home field.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is currently serving as a key host venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosting several group-stage matches, including today’s highly anticipated clash between Congo DR and Uzbekistan. Because the stadium is under FIFA control, Atlanta United has been forced into a grueling stretch of six consecutive road matches spanning from late May through August.
The MLS regular season is currently on a pause for the tournament, with Atlanta United not scheduled to return to action until Friday, July 17, 2026, when they take on Nashville SC at Geodis Park.
Navigating the break
For the training staff and coaching desk, the extended break is a double-edged sword. While the team loses competitive rhythm, the time off allows injured players to recover before a heavy push in late summer.
“Playing six straight matches on the road is a massive mental and physical challenge. But our focus right now is using this MLS pause to integrate our training, prepare for the summer transfer window, and get our bodies ready for the final stretch.”
— Atlanta United Front Office Representative
When the team finally returns to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in late August, they will be facing a revamped roster and a fanship energized by a summer of world-class soccer in the heart of Atlanta.
Devon Patterson is an investigative reporter for WACN 21, focusing on public finance, sports logistics, and stadium operations. Reach them at dpatterson@wacn21.com.
