Building Atlanta United: Pros and cons of Nicklas Bendtner

Univision reported on its website that Atlanta United has expressed an interest in signing enigmatic Danish forward Nicklas Bendtner.

ExploreHere is the univision story.

So, today you will be a bonus version in the series Building Atlanta United.

Others in the series:

ExplorePSG’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who is reportedly signing with Manchester United

ExploreLiverpool’s Kolo Toure

ExploreManchester United’s Michael Carrick, who is reported re-signing with Manchester United

ExploreA.C. Milan’s Alex

ExploreManchester United goalkeeper Victor Valdes

I described Bendtner as enigmatic because his confidence, and quotes about his confidence, have exceeded his results at Arsenal in England, Juventus in Italy and Wolfsburg in Germany. He has scored 46 goals in 218 appearances for various clubs, and 29 goals in 72 appearances for Denmark.

He was released by Arsenal in 2014 after failing to ever secure a first-team spot.

His production actually isn't too bad. But his quotes are what make the totals seem less than ideal.

Pros: Can score goals and is just 28 years old. Could he become another Sebastian Giovinco in MLS?

Cons: Seems to have had issues with management at every club he's played for. President Darren Eales has said many times he wants a player who wants to help establish a culture at Atlanta United. Bendtner wouldn't seem to be that type of leader.

Frankly, I would be surprised if Eales or technical director Carlos Bocanegra would take the risk, unless the media is exaggerating Bendtner’s issues with his clubs. Eales and Bocanegra would know from their time in England.

About the Author