After nearly five successful years, there is a strong likelihood that Luis Muriel will be bidding Atalanta farewell to make the move to Major League Soccer (MLS). His departure raises questions about whether it is the right decision for Atalanta to send him packing.
During his tenure with Atalanta, Muriel has written significant chapters in the club’s history, reaching new heights in spite of inconsistent seasons and numerous challenges. His likely future destination is Orlando City in MLS, a move that has divided opinions given Muriel’s recent performances.
The Colombian forward has had a decent season overall, showing a renewed hunger for the game and determination to take the team forward despite generational changes. His skills have been on display every time he’s been on the pitch, scoring 6 goals and providing 1 assist.
The question arising is why Atalanta would want to lose such an experienced player who can still contribute in the short term. The reasons are manifold, with a key factor being the contractual renewal negotiations proving to be uphill due to Muriel’s high financial demands and the limited room Atalanta could offer him considering the current competition for places up front.
Allowing Muriel to leave on a free transfer, potentially to direct rivals such as Inter, is hardly the ideal scenario. Yet, a prompt offer like the one from Orlando City in recent hours seems to have provided a solution, pleasing all parties involved.
The situation, albeit inevitable, aligns with both Muriel’s and Atalanta’s needs, notwithstanding Muriel’s status as one of the most important players in Atalanta’s history. The prospect of switching continents will mark the next chapter in the footballer’s dynamic career.