Brief Introduction of Thiago Almada
Thiago Ezequiel Almada, born on April 26, 2001, is an Argentine professional footballer renowned for his exceptional skill as an attacking midfielder and winger. Widely recognized as one of the most promising talents from Argentina, Almada has rapidly ascended through the ranks of professional football, achieving significant milestones early in his career. He is particularly known for his creative playmaking, technical ability, and precise dribbling, which have made him a formidable force on the pitch. Almada made history by becoming the first active Major League Soccer (MLS) player to win a FIFA World Cup, a feat he accomplished with the Argentina national team in 2022. Currently, as of September 2025, he plies his trade with La Liga club Atlético Madrid, continuing to build upon a career marked by remarkable achievements and a dynamic playing style.
Thiago Almada Overview
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thiago Ezequiel Almada |
| Date of Birth | April 26, 2001 |
| Age (as of September 2025) | 24 years old |
| Birthplace | Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Height | 1.71 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Weight | 63 kg |
| Position(s) | Attacking Midfielder, Winger |
| Current Club (as of Sept 2025) | Atlético Madrid |
| National Team | Argentina |
| Spouse | Antonella D’Alotta (married December 2024) |
| Parents | Diego Almada (Father), Uma Almada (Mother) |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | Not publicly disclosed; Market Value: €25.00m (as of June 2025) |
| Primary Income Source | Professional Football Salary, Endorsements |
Early Life and Education of Thiago Almada
Thiago Ezequiel Almada was born on April 26, 2001, in Ciudadela, a city within the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. His childhood was shaped in the neighborhood of Ejército de los Andes, more commonly known as Fuerte Apache. This area is historically recognized for its challenging socioeconomic conditions, including high crime rates and prevalent drug use. Despite these circumstances, Almada’s early life was marked by a strong sense of community and a profound work ethic instilled by his family. As a young boy, he contributed to his family’s income by selling fruits and vegetables door-to-door, often spending considerable time with his grandparents while his parents worked. His father, Diego Almada, had a background in football, having played for San Lorenzo de Almagro and briefly in Portugal before returning to Argentina. His mother’s name is Uma Almada.
Almada’s connection to football began at an exceptionally young age. He started playing at a local club called Santa Clara at just four years old, the same club where his idol, Carlos Tevez, also began his journey. By the age of five, his talent was recognized, and he joined the renowned youth academy of Vélez Sarsfield, where he spent 12 formative years honing his skills and progressing through their youth teams until 2018. While specific details about his formal schooling are not widely documented, it is evident that his early focus and dedication were primarily directed towards his burgeoning football career.
Thiago Almada’s Career
Vélez Sarsfield: The Foundation (2018-2022)
Thiago Almada’s professional career officially began on August 10, 2018, just four months after his 17th birthday, when he made his senior debut for Vélez Sarsfield against Newell’s Old Boys, contributing to a 2-0 victory. He quickly demonstrated his scoring ability, netting his first two goals on November 5 of the same year in a match against Defensa y Justicia. His precocious talent did not go unnoticed, and in October 2018, he was featured in The Guardian’s prestigious “Next Generation 2018” list, identifying him as one of the world’s most promising young footballers. Under manager Gabriel Heinze, Almada initially played as a wing forward before transitioning into an attacking midfield role. During his tenure at Vélez Sarsfield, he made 100 appearances across all competitions, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in Argentine football. His performances attracted significant international attention, paving the way for a move abroad.
Atlanta United FC: Breaking MLS Records (2022-2024)
In February 2022, Thiago Almada made a groundbreaking move to Major League Soccer (MLS), joining Atlanta United FC. The transfer, reportedly for $16 million, set a new record for the most expensive signing in MLS history at the time. Almada quickly adapted to the league, making his debut for Atlanta on March 13, 2022, against Charlotte FC, and scoring his first MLS goal in the subsequent match against CF Montréal on March 19. His impact was immediate and profound, earning him the MLS Newcomer of the Year award in his debut season, having registered 6 goals and 12 assists in 29 appearances. The 2023 season saw Almada elevate his game further, earning MLS Best XI honors and being named the MLS Young Player of the Year. He led the league with 19 assists and contributed 11 goals, totaling 30 goal contributions, which placed him third in MLS MVP voting. His 19 assists also set a new single-season record for Atlanta United. During his time in Atlanta, Almada achieved a historic feat, becoming the first active MLS player to win a FIFA World Cup, doing so with Argentina in 2022. He scored his first international goal on March 23, 2023, in a friendly against Panama. In total, he made 77 regular-season appearances for Atlanta United, scoring 23 goals and providing 33 assists.
Botafogo & Lyon Loan: South American and European Transitions (2024-2025)
On July 6, 2024, Almada embarked on another significant chapter in his career, joining Brazilian Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Botafogo on a five-year contract. The transfer fee, reported at $21 million (€19.5 million) with potential add-ons reaching up to $31 million (€27 million), again broke transfer records for both MLS and Brazilian football. In his brief but impactful stint at Botafogo, Almada was instrumental in the club’s success, helping them secure both the 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and the prestigious 2024 Copa Libertadores titles, cementing his status as a key player. He scored his first goal for Botafogo in a 2-0 victory against Corinthians.
Following his success in Brazil, Almada moved to Europe on loan to Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyon on January 15, 2025, with the loan deal set to run until June 30, 2025. During his time at Lyon, he played 16 matches, scoring 1 goal. However, a permanent transfer to Lyon did not materialize due to the French club’s financial issues and a subsequent transfer ban.
Atlético Madrid: The La Liga Challenge (2025-Present)
As of July 2025, Thiago Almada officially joined La Liga giants Atlético Madrid, signing a contract that extends until June 30, 2030. The move, reportedly for £17 million (approximately €20 million) from Botafogo, signifies his ambition to compete at the highest level of European football. His arrival at Atlético Madrid has been met with anticipation, with club president Joan Laporta reportedly impressed by his performances and manager Hansi Flick believing Almada can “rejuvenate” their forward ranks. Despite a challenging start for Atlético in La Liga 2025/2026, Almada has already shown flashes of his talent, contributing to goals and attracting attention from other top clubs like Manchester City, whose manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly monitoring his progress. He quickly demonstrated his impact, assisting Giuliano Simeone’s goal in a 1-1 draw against Alaves in August 2025. Almada’s versatility, capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or winger, makes him a valuable asset to Diego Simeone’s tactical setup.
Thiago Almada Personal Life & Family
Thiago Almada’s personal life is deeply rooted in his family, who have been a constant source of support throughout his career. He was born to Diego Almada and Uma Almada. Diego Almada, his father, had a brief career in professional football, playing for San Lorenzo de Almagro and in Portugal. Thiago also has older brothers who played football in local Fuerte Apache clubs and a sister he is very fond of. Growing up in the challenging environment of Fuerte Apache, family ties were crucial, and he often spent significant time with his grandparents.
In December 2024, Thiago Almada married Antonella D’Alotta. He frequently shares moments with his wife on his social media, showcasing her support at various tournaments and celebrations. Almada maintains a relatively private personal life, with a strong focus on his professional career and family values. His connection to his roots in Fuerte Apache remains significant, embodying a story of perseverance and success from humble beginnings.
Awards and Achievements of Thiago Almada
Thiago Almada has amassed an impressive collection of awards and honors throughout his young career, highlighting his significant impact at both club and international levels.
- FIFA World Cup Winner: 2022 (with Argentina)
- Copa Libertadores Winner: 2024 (with Botafogo)
- Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Winner: 2024 (with Botafogo)
- MLS Young Player of the Year: 2023
- MLS Best XI: 2023
- MLS All-Star: 2023
- MLS Newcomer of the Year: 2022
- TM-Player of the Season: 2023 (Transfermarkt Users’ Player of the Season)
- The Guardian’s “Next Generation 2018”: Included in list of top young talents
Thiago Almada Net Worth and Income
As a highly sought-after professional footballer, Thiago Almada commands substantial income through his club contracts, transfer fees, and potential endorsement deals. As of September 2025, his exact net worth is not publicly disclosed or officially available. However, his financial trajectory can be inferred from his significant market value and past salaries.
His market value as of June 2025 stands at an impressive €25.00 million (approximately $27.5 million USD), according to Transfermarkt. This figure reflects his high standing in the global football market. During his loan spell at Lyon for the 2024-25 season, Almada’s estimated weekly wage was $77,475, translating to an annual salary of approximately $4,028,700. His previous transfer fees also highlight his significant financial value: his move to Atlanta United in 2022 was an MLS-record $16 million, and his transfer to Botafogo in 2024 for $21 million (€19.5 million) plus add-ons up to $31 million (€27 million) broke both MLS and Brazilian transfer records. His most recent move to Atlético Madrid in July 2025 was for approximately £17 million (€20 million). While a precise net worth figure remains private, these financial markers indicate a robust and growing wealth.
Legacy and Influence
Thiago Almada’s legacy is rapidly taking shape, driven by his extraordinary talent and significant achievements at a young age. His journey from the challenging neighborhood of Fuerte Apache to becoming a FIFA World Cup winner is an inspirational story of resilience and dedication, resonating with aspiring young footballers, particularly in Argentina. By becoming the first active MLS player to win a World Cup, he broadened the global perception and prestige of Major League Soccer, demonstrating that top-tier talent can emerge and thrive within the league before making a mark on the international stage.
Almada’s playing style, characterized by exceptional creativity, technical brilliance, and vision, has earned him comparisons to some of Argentina’s finest playmakers. He is lauded for his ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes, execute precise dribbles, and score crucial goals, making him a “potential game-changer” and a “symbol of the future of football”. His influence extends beyond individual performances; he is seen as a leader and a vital component in any team he represents, embodying a blend of raw talent and tactical intelligence. As he continues his career at Atlético Madrid, his impact on European football and his role in the Argentina national team are expected to further solidify his legacy as one of his generation’s most influential attacking midfielders.
Interesting Facts about Thiago Almada
- Fuerte Apache Roots: Almada grew up in the Fuerte Apache neighborhood of Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, a community known for its challenging conditions but also for producing football talents like Carlos Tevez, who served as an idol for Almada.
- Early Entrepreneur: As a child, Almada helped his family by selling fruits and vegetables door-to-door to earn extra money.
- Historic World Cup Win: He holds the distinction of being the first active Major League Soccer (MLS) player to win a FIFA World Cup, achieving this with Argentina in 2022.
- Record-Breaking Transfers: Almada’s moves to Atlanta United (2022) and Botafogo (2024) both set new transfer fee records for the MLS and the Brazilian league, respectively, underscoring his high market value.
- Messi’s Praise: Lionel Messi has publicly praised Almada, describing him as a player with “a lot of freshness,” “very fast,” good in one-on-one situations, and “very cunning and daring,” who “isn’t afraid of anything”.
- Versatile Player: Coaches and analysts frequently highlight his versatility, noting his ability to perform effectively as an attacking midfielder, a winger, or even a second striker.
- “Guayo” Nickname: He is known by the nickname “Guayo” among his family and close circles.
Controversies
Thiago Almada’s career has not been without its challenges and controversies. In February 2021, while still playing for Vélez Sarsfield, Almada, along with a teammate, was charged with sexual abuse with the aggravating circumstances of carnal access and group abuse by prosecutor Laura Zyseskind. This incident sparked significant public debate and controversy, particularly when Almada was subsequently called up by Lionel Scaloni to play for the Argentina national team in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This decision drew widespread international criticism, with the victim’s attorney pointing out alleged irregularities given FIFA and AFA regulations regarding players with pending criminal cases. Almada and his teammate were awaiting sentencing by the Argentine court at the time of the World Cup call-up.
Upon his signing with Atlanta United in 2022, Almada also faced scrutiny from fans for making a racially insensitive gesture with his eyes during a goal celebration. He issued an apology shortly after being questioned about the incident. While these controversies have marked certain periods of his career, Almada has largely maintained a focus on his on-field performances, continuing to develop as a prominent figure in football.
Social Media Presence
Thiago Almada maintains an active and significant presence across various social media platforms, connecting with a global fanbase that follows his burgeoning career. His official Instagram account, where he shares updates on his matches, training, personal life, and achievements, serves as a primary channel for engagement. Similarly, he is present on X (formerly Twitter), where he interacts with fans and shares news related to his club and national team endeavors. While specific follower counts fluctuate, as a FIFA World Cup winner and a prominent player for top-tier clubs, Almada commands a substantial following across these platforms, reflecting his popularity and influence in the football world. His social media activity often provides glimpses into his life, celebrations, and dedication to the sport, further solidifying his public image.
Final Words about Thiago Almada
Thiago Almada’s journey in professional football has been nothing short of meteoric, marked by remarkable talent, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As of September 2025, his move to Atlético Madrid signifies a crucial step in his ambition to solidify his status among the elite in European football. Having already achieved the dream of every footballer by winning the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and securing major club titles with Botafogo, Almada’s current status is one of a rapidly ascending global star.
His legacy is being built not only on the numerous trophies and individual accolades but also on his inspirational path from a challenging background to the pinnacle of the sport. His dynamic playing style, characterized by creativity, technical prowess, and an ability to dictate games, promises many more exciting performances. Looking ahead, Thiago Almada’s future plans undoubtedly involve continuing to excel at Atlético Madrid, vying for more silverware in La Liga and European competitions, and remaining a pivotal player for the Argentina national team. With his passion for the game and continuous drive for improvement, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on football for years to come.
