Atlanta United Bolsters Midfield with Promising Draft Picks: Dovlo and James
Atlanta United has made significant moves in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft, trading away the No. 2 overall pick to FC Dallas in exchange for $400,000 in General Allocation Money and the No. 12 selection. The club then used that pick, and a later one at No. 62, to snag midfielders Enzo Dovlo from UNC Greensboro and Noah James from the University of San Diego. This strategic maneuvering signals a clear intent to reinforce the team’s central playmaking capabilities.
Enzo Dovlo: A Rising Star from North Carolina
Dovlo’s collegiate career at UNC Greensboro was nothing short of impressive. The Paris, France native consistently elevated his game throughout his three years, culminating in a stellar 2025 season where he netted 10 goals and added eight assists in 23 starts. This performance earned him First-Team All-SoCon and Third-Team All-America honors. His versatility – initially playing as a left back before transitioning to midfield – adds a valuable dimension to his skillset. Dovlo’s hat-trick against VCU and consistent SoCon Offensive Player of the Week accolades demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure.
A recording of Dovlo’s initial comments after being drafted is available here.
Noah James: A West Coast Product with Tournament Experience
Noah James brings a different profile to Atlanta United. The Poway, California native spent time at both Western Michigan and the University of San Diego, accumulating 60 collegiate appearances. His breakout 2024 season with Western Michigan, where he scored seven goals and provided four assists, propelled the Broncos to the NCAA Tournament second round. James’s transfer to San Diego further honed his skills, earning him All-WCC Second Team honors and contributing to the program’s fourth consecutive WCC Championship. His experience in high-stakes tournament play could prove invaluable.
The Growing Trend of Collegiate Midfielders in MLS
Atlanta United’s focus on midfielders in this draft aligns with a broader trend in MLS. Teams are increasingly prioritizing players who can control possession, dictate tempo, and contribute both offensively and defensively. The league’s evolution towards a more possession-based style of play demands technically gifted midfielders. Recent successes of players like Jackson Yueill (San Jose Earthquakes) and Djordje Mihailovic (CF Montréal, now traded to Houston Dynamo) demonstrate the impact a dynamic midfielder can have on a team’s fortunes. According to data from MLS Soccer, teams with a pass completion rate above 80% have a significantly higher win percentage.
What This Means for Atlanta United’s Future
The acquisition of Dovlo and James doesn’t necessarily mean immediate starting roles. However, it provides Atlanta United with valuable depth and potential for future growth. Both players will likely benefit from training alongside established MLS veterans and integrating into the club’s system. The allocation money received from the trade with FC Dallas also provides financial flexibility for potential future acquisitions. This draft strategy demonstrates a long-term vision focused on building a sustainable and competitive team.
FAQ
- What position does Enzo Dovlo play? Dovlo is primarily a midfielder, but has experience playing as a left back.
- Where did Noah James play college soccer? James played at Western Michigan University and the University of San Diego.
- What did Atlanta United receive in the trade with FC Dallas? Atlanta United received $400,000 in General Allocation Money ($350,000 in 2026, $50,000 in 2027) and the No. 12 pick.
- Will these players start immediately? It’s unlikely they will be immediate starters, but they provide valuable depth and potential for future development.
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