"We want to thank Julian for his service to our club over the past three seasons,” Carlos Bocanegra said via a press release. “Coming out of college, Julian played an important role in building our team and helping the club win three major trophies. We wish him luck in his future.”
Gressel, 26, was selected with the No. 8 pick in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, Atlanta United’s second pick. After scoring five goals and recording nine assists in 2017, Gressel was named the 2017 MLS Rookie of the Year. The German midfielder carried over his form into the 2018 season, where he was tied for the team lead with 14 assists, helping Atlanta United win the 2018 MLS Cup. In 2019, Gressel scored a career-high six goals and contributed 12 assists. His versatility was on display as Frank de Boer deployed the midfielder in several positions. Gressel’s form continued into the postseason, where he scored two goals and added one assist.
D.C. United has just traded for Julian Gressel. Exchange for money. More to come ... #dcu #ATLUTD #mls
— Steven Goff (@SoccerInsider)
January 21, 2020 Sides apparently had been talking for past 10 days. As part of the deal, Gressel's salary will go way up: $114,000 base to $700K+. Four years (unclear about options)
— Steven Goff (@SoccerInsider)
January 21, 2020
