Emmanuel Latte Lath Faces Challenges in MLS Debut Season with Atlanta United

Ivorian forward's move from Middlesbrough to Atlanta marked by highs, injuries, and hopes for a rebound in 2026.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Emmanuel Latte Lath, a 22-year-old Ivorian forward, made a high-profile move from Middlesbrough to Atlanta United in MLS in February 2025, setting a new transfer record. While he started strong, scoring two goals in his debut, Latte Lath's first season in the US was marked by inconsistent form, a lengthy goal drought, and a muscle injury that sidelined him for three games. Atlanta United struggled as a team, finishing 14th in the Eastern Conference and missing the playoffs entirely.

Why it matters

Latte Lath's transition from the English Championship to MLS has been closely watched, as the young striker looks to establish himself as a star in the increasingly competitive North American league. His performance and Atlanta United's fortunes will be a key storyline to follow as the club aims to rebound from its worst season in franchise history.

The details

After a promising start that saw him score two goals in his MLS debut, Latte Lath's form soon stalled. He went goalless in his next two matches before scoring three goals and adding two assists over a four-game stretch. However, he then endured a lengthy goal drought from late March to mid-July, only breaking it with a goal in a 1-1 draw against Toronto FC. Latte Lath added one more goal shortly after but did not score again in the league. His season was further disrupted by a muscle injury that sidelined him for three games.

  • Latte Lath made his MLS debut for Atlanta United on February 23, 2025, scoring two goals in a 3-2 win over Montreal.
  • Between late March and mid-July 2025, Latte Lath endured a lengthy goal drought before breaking it with a goal against Toronto FC.
  • Atlanta United's 2025 MLS season kicks off on February 21, 2026 with an away game against FC Cincinnati.

The players

Emmanuel Latte Lath

A 22-year-old Ivorian forward who transferred from Middlesbrough to Atlanta United in MLS in February 2025 for a record £22.5 million fee.

Michael Carrick

The former manager of Middlesbrough, where Latte Lath played before his move to MLS.

Gerardo Martino

The new manager of Atlanta United, taking over after the club's disappointing 2025 season.

Atlanta United

The MLS club that Latte Lath joined in 2025, finishing 14th in the Eastern Conference and missing the playoffs.

Middlesbrough

The English Championship club that Latte Lath left to join Atlanta United, struggling to reach the playoffs after his departure.

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What’s next

With former Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino now at the helm, the pressure is on for both Atlanta United and Emmanuel Latte Lath to bounce back from the club's worst season in 2025.

The takeaway

Latte Lath's challenging debut season in MLS highlights the difficulties young European players can face when transitioning to the highly competitive North American league. As Atlanta United looks to rebound, the club and its star striker will need to find more consistency and overcome injury setbacks to regain their form.