Atlanta United have added a new striker to their attacking unit the with signing of Daniel Rios on loan from Liga MX giants Chivas de Guadelajara.
The Five Stripes moved to bring in Rios through the 2024 MLS season to bring in depth but also competition for the backup striker spot with Jamal Thiare, who’s yet to really have a run in the starting XI due to Giorgos Giakoumakis’ dominant performances. But with Giakoumakis potentially heading off to Euro 2024 this summer with Greece, Atlanta needed more cover in the striker position to stay on course for a top-four finish in the Eastern Conference.
“We have been looking to strengthen our depth in the attack and find a proven goal scorer who knows MLS,” Atlanta vice president and technical director Carlos Bocanegra said in a release.
“Daniel is a player we are familiar with from his previous stops in the league. Looking ahead to a busy summer with MLS, U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup, along with the potential to lose several players to both Euros and Copa America, we believe Daniel brings quality to our team and adds competition to the group.”
Rios becomes a temporary member of the Five Stripes after managing just one goal in 19 appearances for Chivas since his arrival in Janaury 2023. The 29-year-old has prior MLS experience, as he recorded 12 goals and two assists in 57 appearances for the likes of Nashville SC and Charlotte FC before making the move to Liga MX.
The Mexico City native will certainly have his chances as Giakoumakis will be called up to the Greece national team throughout the MLS season before the postseason begins in October. Giakoumakis, as well as Thiago Almada and Bartosz Slisz, are set to suit up for their respective nations during this week’s international break and will miss Atlanta’s upcoming clash with Toronto FC.
Atlanta, fresh off a 2-0 triumph over their rivals Orlando City on Sunday night, now prepare to take on Toronto this Saturday at BMO Field.
