Darren Eales talks Garza trade, Pity/Almiron transfer rumors, and preparing for CCL

Atlanta United president Darren Eagles Sales Eales sat down with MLSSoccer.com’s ExtraTime Radio for an all-inclusive chat following the club’s MLS Cup triumph. As always, Eales provided just enough insight to be entertaining while still keeping his cards hidden.

Greg Garza’s trade to FC Cincinnati was the club’s first big transaction of the offseason. Of that move, Eales was extremely complimentary of the full back, calling him a “legend of the club.” Without giving too much away, he hinted that a mixture of salary cap finagling and opening space for an emerging George Bello were all reasons for making the move. Ultimately calling the deal “too good to turn down.”

As you’d expect if you’ve been paying attention to how Eales operates, he didn’t reveal much when talking about the potential transfers of Pity Martinez and Miguel Almiron. He reiterated that the club is under no obligation to sell Almiron and that they will wait for an offer fitting of Miggy’s talents.

When confronted with overwhelming evidence of Pity’s possible arrival in Atlanta, including the player himself revealing the transfer is imminent, Eales predictably downplayed the rumors by saying he won’t comment on players under contract with other clubs.

Eales mentions that he plans to sit down with Josef Martinez this offseason and expects the club to be able to find a deal to keep him in Atlanta for a long time.

Finally, Eales revealed that he hopes Atlanta United continue to pioneer MLS by becoming the first club in the league to capture the Concacaf Champions League. One of the ways he’ll look to help his side do that is by organizing a unique preseason that could include playing some Liga MX teams or playing at altitude.

For the full interview and a brilliant story on how Darren felt like a star in the show ATLANTA, listen here.