Atlanta United
Atlanta United

Exclusive: Barco talks about joining Atlanta United

Barco, 18, is a 5-foot-6 midfield phenom. The left-footed Barco has played for Independiente of Argentina's Primera Division. Barco has made 57 appearances for Independiente. Barco, an attacking midfielder, has scored eight goals. He appeared in the 2017 Copa Sudamericana and scored the title-winning goal against Flamengo. Atlanta United paid $15 million to acquire Barco. Barco is expected to be under contract through 2021.
By
Jan 31, 2018

Ezequiel Barco, considered one of the brightest young talents in world soccer, joined Atlanta United Tuesday at preseason training in Orlando and spoke to the AJC's Doug Roberson about his new team, high expectations and more.

Barco, 18, left Independiente in Argentina and joins the Five Stripes in a deal for a reported $15 million transfer fee.

About the Author

Doug Roberson covers the Atlanta United and Major League Soccer.

Follow Doug Roberson on facebookFollow Doug Roberson on twitter
More Stories

Keep Reading

In a joint bid between four countries, Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium was designated as a potential host stadium for the 2031 Women’s World Cup. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Atlanta is included in 2031 Women’s World Cup bid

The bid book includes information on more than 35 cities, estimating 4.5 million fans and more than $4 billion in projected revenue.

FIFA sets World Cup bracket rules

The tournament schedule, when cities will find out which teams will play in specific stadiums, will be announced Dec. 6. Atlanta will host several matches, plus a semifinal.

The Latest

In a joint bid between four countries, Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium was designated as a potential host stadium for the 2031 Women’s World Cup. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Atlanta is included in 2031 Women’s World Cup bid

FIFA sets World Cup bracket rules

Inside look: Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center is a palace

Featured

Inventor Lonnie Johnson stands with his Super Soaker water guns at JTEC Energy on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Atlanta. Johnson, a former NASA engineer, is currently working on a new energy technology through his company’s JTEC device that turns thermal heat into usable energy. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

Earth needs more energy. Atlanta’s Super Soaker creator may have a solution.

The legendary inventor of the Super Soaker, Lonnie Johnson, is refining technology in Atlanta that he thinks could help the planet reduce energy waste.

Teen GOP activist steps down from party leadership post

Greene County native and University of North Georgia student Ja’Quon Stembridge, 19, had run on boosting youth involvement in the party.

2025 SEC championship game: Kickoff time, TV channel, participants, ticket info

The 2025 SEC Championship Game is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6. Below you can find information on game time, TV channel and particpants for the game.