‘Can’t wait to play here’ – Atlanta United’s newest star and MLS record transfer Emmanuel Latte Lath stunned by Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Emmanuel Latte Lath is already soaking in his new surroundings after sealing a record-breaking move to Atlanta United. The 26-year-old, who joined from Middlesbrough for an MLS-record $22 million, was visibly in awe as he toured Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Cameras captured his excitement as he explored his future home, and he admitted he couldn’t wait to play there.

Latte Lath arrives in MLS after an impressive spell at Boro, where he netted 29 goals in 67 appearances. His transfer shattered the league’s previous incoming fee record, set earlier this season when FC Cincinnati signed Kévin Denkey for $16.2 million.

While he only spent 18 months at Middlesbrough, Latte Lath did well for the Championship side and walked away as one of their best strikers. He finished his debut 2023-24 season with 18 goals in 36 appearances, including nine in the last eight games. It saw interest in him spike but a move to Premier League side Ipswich Town collapsed on deadline day in the summer of 2024. While that move did impact Latte Lath, with his goalscoring numbers taking a dip, the Ivorian soon recovered his form in October. He netted 11 goals in 29 appearances this season before Atlanta United came calling.

Atlanta United’s record-breaking move comes as no surprise to MLS fans, given the club’s history of ambition. This transfer window alone, they’ve reinforced their attack by signing Mateusz Klich, winger Saba Lobjanidze, and even re-signing Miguel Almirón. Now, with newly appointed head coach Ronny Deila at the helm, fans are eager to see his plans unfold when Atlanta kicks off the 2025 MLS season against CF Montreal on Feb. 23.