Efraín Morales signs new deal with Atlanta United

Homegrown from the inaugural U12 squad re-signs with his hometown club

11/29/23

Atlanta United announced today that they have signed Efraín Morales to a new contract for the 2024 MLS season with options for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. He originally signed a Homegrown contract in the summer of 2020 and has made nearly 60 appearances for Atlanta United 2 since becoming a professional at 16 years old.

2023 was a big year for Morales as he played center back exclusively for the first time as a pro and the consistency came out in his performances. He ranked 6th in MLS Next Pro in passing accuracy among players who made at least 20 appearances. He led Atlanta United 2 in aerial duel percentage and was among the league leaders in that category as well. Morales earned call-ups to the Bolivian U20 side and his first training camp appearance with the full senior national team during World Cup qualifying.

“Efraín is a player who has continued to improve along his pathway from our inaugural U-12 side to Atlanta United 2 and the First Team,” Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra said. “We’re excited to sign him to a contract extension and look forward to his continued development at the club.”

Looking ahead to 2024, Atlanta United currently has two other center backs under contract in Luis Abram and Noah Cobb. A contract offer has been extended to Miles Robinson, who is out of contract. With the consistency in positioning and performance he achieved in 2023, 2024 can be a big year for Efraín Morales.

(photo credit: ATLUTD 2)