Colombian midfielder Eduard Atuesta is poised to make a return to Major League Soccer (MLS) side LAFC on loan from Brazilian club Palmeiras, according to sources. After struggling to secure a starting role and being plagued by injury issues at Palmeiras, this move presents a fresh opportunity for the 26-year-old to reignite his career.
A Look at Atuesta’s Success and Struggles
Despite a promising start to his stint at Palmeiras, where he secured two Brazilian Serie A championships since his debut in 2022, Atuesta found it challenging to establish himself as a regular starter. In his 60 appearances for the club, he managed to contribute with two goals and two assists. However, the playing time afforded to him was far from satisfactory.
It is worth noting that Atuesta had previously made a name for himself as a key figure with LAFC from 2018 to 2021. During his time there, he achieved remarkable feats, including clinching the Supporters’ Shield trophy in 2019 and earning selections to the MLS’ Best XI in the same year. His performances were also acknowledged with an All-Star appearance in 2021.
The Homecoming
With his return to LAFC on loan, Atuesta has the opportunity to reunite with familiar faces and rekindle the chemistry that made him successful in the past. This move presents a chance for him to recapture his form and once again make a significant impact on the team’s performances.
The news of Atuesta’s potential return comes shortly after LAFC’s co-president and general manager, John Thorrington, hinted at forthcoming additions to the team’s roster during a preseason press conference. The anticipation builds as fans eagerly await the official announcement of Atuesta’s loan deal.
LAFC, the reigning MLS Cup champions in 2022 and finalists in 2023, will commence their 2024 campaign on February 24th with a highly anticipated match against Seattle Sounders FC. The return of Atuesta adds depth and quality to LAFC’s midfield, enhancing their chances of continued success in the upcoming season.
This upcoming season holds immense importance for Atuesta as well. With his loan move to LAFC, he has a chance to showcase his skills and reestablish himself as one of the top midfielders in MLS. The support from his former teammates, coaching staff, and the LAFC fanbase can provide the ideal environment for his resurgence.
While the loan deal provides an immediate opportunity for Atuesta to revive his career, there is also the potential for a permanent move to be arranged. The option to make the loan deal permanent demonstrates the club’s belief in Atuesta’s abilities and their desire to secure him for the foreseeable future.
Eduard Atuesta’s return to LAFC on loan marks an exciting chapter in his career. After facing setbacks and challenges at Palmeiras, he now has the chance to reclaim his status as a key player for the MLS side. With the support of his new teammates and the opportunity to work under familiar leadership, Atuesta’s time at LAFC looks promising. Fans eagerly await his arrival and hope for a triumphant comeback in the upcoming season.