:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58387363/usa_today_10552766.0.jpg)
While Atlanta United’s biggest acquisition of the day came in the form of Ezequiel Barco, there were a few more new arrivals earlier in the day. Holding the 14th overall pick in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft, as well as the 36th and 37th picks, Atlanta added two forwards and a defender.
Round 1, 14th pick: Jon Gallagher, Notre Dame
A year after selecting Julian Gressel, who went on to win Rookie of the Year, Atlanta once again drafted with an attacking mindset in this year’s first round. With the 14th overall pick in the draft, Atlanta selected Jon Gallagher, a forward out of the University of Notre Dame. The 21-year old Ireland native will find minutes difficult to come by in Atlanta’s star-studded attack and could prove useful for the USL side, Atlanta United 2.
Gallagher’s career at Notre Dame saw him win plenty of honors, including 2016 ACC Offensive Player of the Year and 2016 All-ACC First Team. While his chances will likely be limited, Gallagher will aim to fight for a spot to be Josef Martinez’s backup.
Round 2, Pick 36: Oliver Shannon, Clemson
Atlanta spent the first of their back to back second round picks on Oliver Shannon, a midfielder out of Clemson University. The 22-year old from Liverpool will more than likely spend time with the USL side as Atlanta will use their second team to develop talent to bring through.
As a Junior, Shannon was named to the All-ACC Second Team and was named a captain for Clemson.
Round 3, Pick 37: Gordon Wild, Maryland
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10064837/usa_today_10552939.jpg)
Atlanta used their final pick of the SuperDraft to bring in yet another forward, this time picking Gordon Wild out of the University of Maryland. The 21-year old out of Germany is another talent to add to Atlanta’s abundance of attacking threats, but should see plenty of time in the USL.
Wild, who impressed in his Junior year at Maryland, could prove useful in the future as Atlanta have already shown they can develop attacking talents in their brief history, but will likely see few chances amidst a crowded first team.