Biography
Who is Thiago Almada?
Early life and beginnings
Thiago Ezequiel Almada was born in Ciudadela, Argentina. He spent his youth in the Ejército de los Andes neighborhood, widely known as Fuerte Apache. This area was recognized for its high crime rates and struggles with drug use. During his childhood, he frequently worked door-to-door selling fruits and vegetables to contribute to family income. He also spent substantial time with his grandparents while his parents were away at work.
His interest in football began at a very young age. At just four years old, he started playing for a local club named Santa Clara. His potential was noticed quickly by scouts and coaching staff. By the time he was five, he joined the youth academy at Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield, marking the official start of his development as a professional athlete. This early foundation proved essential for his future success on the pitch.
Professional club career
Thiago Almada made his professional debut for Vélez Sarsfield on August 10, 2018, shortly after turning seventeen. He quickly established himself as a talented midfielder within the Argentine Primera División. In December 2021, the club announced a major transfer agreement with the Major League Soccer team Atlanta United. This move was finalized in early 2022 for a reported league-record fee of 16 million dollars. During his time in the United States, he earned the 2022 MLS Newcomer of the Year award and was a key contributor during his seasons there.
In July 2024, the midfielder moved to Brazil to join Botafogo on a five-year contract. This high-profile deal broke transfer records for both the Brazilian league and Major League Soccer. While at Botafogo, he helped the team secure both the 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and the 2024 Copa Libertadores. Following a loan stint with the French club Lyon, he signed with the Spanish team Atlético Madrid in 2025. By August 2026, he returned to Argentina to play for River Plate. The deal for his signing set a new record as the most expensive transfer in Argentine football history.
International achievements and legal challenges
On the international stage, the player represented Argentina at the under-20 and under-23 levels before joining the senior national team. He made his senior debut in September 2022 during a friendly match against Honduras in Miami. Later that year, he was selected for the Argentine squad that competed in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He became the first active Major League Soccer player to win the tournament. He earned his first international goal in March 2023 against Panama. He also competed for his country during the 2024 Summer Olympics. In May 2026, he was named to the squad for the FIFA World Cup.
In his personal life, he faced legal scrutiny regarding allegations of sexual abuse. In December 2020, he was reported for an incident in San Isidro, Buenos Aires. He and a teammate were charged by a prosecutor in February 2021. The legal case has remained a point of public discussion throughout his career, alongside his professional accomplishments.
Birthday and age
Thiago Almada was born on April 26, 2001, which makes Thiago 25 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Thiago shares the date with 62 other famous people.
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