Who Is Thiago Almada?

Thiago Ezequiel Almada was born on April 26, 2001, in Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, Argentina. He began playing football at a young age and joined the youth academy of Vélez Sarsfield, one of Argentina’s most respected talent-producing clubs.

Almada quickly gained attention for his exceptional ball control, quick feet, and ability to create chances from midfield. Many scouts compared his style to some of Argentina’s greatest attacking players due to his flair and technical ability.

His performances in Argentina attracted interest from clubs across Europe and North America, eventually leading to a major move abroad.

Thiago Almada’s Club Career

Vélez Sarsfield (2018–2022)

Almada made his professional debut for Vélez Sarsfield in 2018 while still a teenager.

During his time at the club, he:

• Became one of Argentina’s brightest young talents.
• Scored crucial goals in domestic competitions.
• Earned recognition from European scouts.
• Established himself as a regular first-team player.

His performances helped elevate his reputation internationally and paved the way for a move to Major League Soccer.

Atlanta United (2022–2024)

In 2022, Almada signed for Atlanta United FC in Major League Soccer.

The move proved transformative.

At Atlanta United, Almada:

• Became one of MLS’s biggest stars.
• Won MLS Young Player of the Year honors.
• Produced goals and assists consistently.
• Became one of the league’s most marketable players.

His technical ability and creativity made him one of the best attacking midfielders in North America. He recorded impressive statistics and attracted attention from major European clubs.

Botafogo (2024–2025)

In July 2024, Almada joined Brazilian giants Botafogo in a record transfer from Atlanta United. The deal reportedly exceeded €24 million.

His time at Botafogo was highly successful:

• Won the Brazilian Serie A title.
• Won the Copa Libertadores.
• Became a key figure in midfield.
• Enhanced his reputation on the international stage.

The move demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure in one of South America’s most competitive football environments.

Lyon Loan Spell (2025)

In January 2025, Almada joined Olympique Lyonnais on loan from Botafogo. The transfer was officially confirmed by Lyon and represented his first opportunity to play in European football.

At Lyon, he:

• Adapted quickly to Ligue 1.
• Showed creativity and technical quality.
• Continued developing against elite competition.
• Increased his value in the European market.

Many observers believed the move would be a stepping stone toward one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Atlético Madrid (2025–Present)

Following impressive performances in France, Almada secured a move to Atlético Madrid in July 2025.

Reports indicated that Atlético Madrid agreed a deal worth approximately €21 million and signed him on a long-term contract through 2030.

The transfer represented another major milestone in his career as he joined one of Spain’s most successful clubs.

Under coach Diego Simeone, Almada has continued developing as an attacking midfielder and winger capable of influencing matches at the highest level.

Thiago Almada and Argentina

One of the most remarkable aspects of Almada’s career is his success with the Argentina national team.

He became part of the senior squad and was included in Argentina’s victorious 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign. Although he played a limited role during the tournament, he officially became a World Cup winner.

Since then, Almada has steadily increased his importance for Argentina.

His strengths include:

• Creative passing.
• Vision in the final third.
• Ball retention.
• Dribbling in tight spaces.
• Ability to score from distance.

Many analysts believe he could become a central figure for Argentina’s future generations after the era of Lionel Messi.

Recent discussions among supporters have highlighted his growing role in Argentina’s World Cup setup and starting opportunities in major matches.

Thiago Almada and Chelsea Rumors

Chelsea have frequently been linked with talented young South American players, and Almada has appeared in transfer rumors over the years.

The reasons Chelsea scouts reportedly admired Almada include:

• Elite technical skills.
• Versatility.
• Young age.
• International experience.
• Strong resale value.

However, no official transfer to Chelsea has materialized.

Instead, Almada’s European journey took him through Lyon before eventually joining Atlético Madrid. While Chelsea links generated significant speculation among fans, no confirmed deal was completed. Current reports show Atlético Madrid as his present club.

Thiago Almada Playing Style

Almada is widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted Argentine players of his generation.

Strengths

Creativity

He excels at unlocking defenses through clever passing and movement.

Dribbling

His close control allows him to navigate tight spaces and beat defenders.

Vision

Almada frequently creates goal-scoring opportunities for teammates.

Versatility

He can operate as:

• Attacking midfielder
• Central midfielder
• Left winger
• Right winger
• False nine

Set Pieces

His delivery from free kicks and corners provides additional value.

Thiago Almada Salary

One of the most searched topics about Almada is his salary.

Recent reports indicate that after his move to Atlético Madrid, he signed a contract running until 2030 worth approximately €5.4 million annually, which equates to around €450,000 per month.

Estimated earnings:

These figures place him among the better-paid Argentine midfielders currently playing in Europe.

Thiago Almada Wife

Many fans search online for information regarding Thiago Almada’s wife or relationship status.

As of 2026, Almada keeps much of his personal life private. Publicly available information does not confirm that he is married. While there have been occasional social media discussions regarding his relationships, there is no widely verified evidence that he currently has a wife. Reliable football databases and official club profiles focus primarily on his football career rather than his personal life.

Therefore, any reports claiming details about a wife should be treated cautiously unless confirmed by Almada himself.

Thiago Almada Dates Joined Clubs

Below is a summary of the key dates in Thiago Almada’s professional career.

These transfers illustrate his rapid progression through some of the world’s most competitive football leagues.

Why Thiago Almada Is Considered a Future Superstar

Several factors suggest Almada can remain among football’s elite players for years:

World Cup Experience

Winning the World Cup with Argentina provided invaluable experience early in his career.

European Development

Playing in France and Spain has accelerated his growth.

Technical Excellence

His creativity and dribbling remain world-class attributes.

Age Advantage

At only 25 years old in 2026, he still has many peak years ahead.

International Importance

Argentina increasingly views him as part of the next generation of stars.

Conclusion

Thiago Almada’s journey from Buenos Aires to the world’s biggest stages is a remarkable football success story. From Vélez Sarsfield to Atlanta United, Botafogo, Lyon, Atlético Madrid, and Argentina, he has consistently demonstrated elite talent and professionalism.

While Chelsea rumors generated excitement among supporters, his career ultimately took him to Atlético Madrid, where he continues to establish himself among Europe’s top attacking midfielders. With a lucrative salary, growing international reputation, and immense technical ability, Almada remains one of Argentina’s most exciting footballers heading into the future.

FAQs

Who is Thiago Almada?

Thiago Almada is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder and winger for Atlético Madrid and the Argentina national team.

Has Thiago Almada played for Argentina?

Yes. Almada is a World Cup-winning Argentina international and has become an increasingly important member of the national team.

Did Thiago Almada join Chelsea?

No. Although linked with Chelsea in transfer rumors, Almada never signed for the Premier League club.

What is Thiago Almada’s salary?

Reports indicate he earns approximately €5.4 million per year at Atlético Madrid.

Is Thiago Almada married?

There is no widely verified public information confirming that Thiago Almada is married.

When did Thiago Almada join Atlético Madrid?

He officially joined Atlético Madrid in July 2025 on a contract running through 2030.

What position does Thiago Almada play?

He primarily plays as an attacking midfielder but can also operate as a winger or central playmaker.

How old is Thiago Almada?

Thiago Almada was born on April 26, 2001, making him 25 years old in 2026.