Atlanta United has added a major piece to its attack ahead of today’s matchup against Sporting Kansas City.
The club announced Sunday that it has signed 29-year-old forward Breel Embolo from Stade Rennais to a contract through the 2029-30 season.
Embolo will occupy a Designated Player roster spot and an international roster spot, pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa.
The move gives Atlanta an experienced center forward with a résumé that includes top-flight soccer in Switzerland, Germany and France, along with extensive Champions League, Europa League and international experience.
“We’re pleased to bring a player with Breel’s combination of talent and experience at the highest levels of world soccer to Atlanta United,” Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson said.
Henderson pointed to Embolo’s goal-scoring ability, link-up play and work rate as qualities that should strengthen Atlanta’s attack.
And the numbers back that up.
Embolo has made 380 professional appearances, recording 100 goals and 66 assists across his club career.
He began his senior career with FC Basel, where he helped the club win three consecutive Swiss league titles and was named Swiss Super League Player of the Year in 2015.
From there, Embolo moved to Germany, playing for Schalke 04 and Borussia Mönchengladbach before continuing his career in France with AS Monaco and Stade Rennais.
Most recently, he scored 10 goals and added three assists in 34 appearances for Rennes.
Embolo also brings significant experience on the international stage.
He has recorded 26 goals and 20 assists in 92 appearances for Switzerland and has played in three FIFA World Cups.
At the 2026 World Cup, Embolo started all six matches for Switzerland, scoring two goals and adding two assists while helping his country reach the quarterfinals.
For Atlanta United, the timing of the signing adds even more intrigue.
The Five Stripes enter today’s match against Sporting Kansas City riding a two-game winning streak and showing signs of momentum after a difficult stretch earlier in the season.
Adding Embolo gives Atlanta another proven attacking threat alongside Miguel Almirón, Alexey Miranchuk, Tristan Muyumba and Fafa Picault.
Embolo will not be available until his paperwork is complete, but his arrival gives Atlanta a major boost as the club looks to keep building momentum down the stretch.
Atlanta United hosts Sporting Kansas City tonight at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET.
For the Five Stripes, the message is simple: keep the streak going — and get ready for a new weapon up top.
