Atlanta United Trades For German Midfielder Kevin Kratz

Stone Sports Management LLC (Columbus, Ohio) -  December 11, 2016

2017 MLS Expansion Franchise Atlanta United FC announced today the addition of German midfielder Kevin Kratz after trading with the Philadelphia Union. Today marked the opening of a half-day trade window which found Atlanta United aggressive with three other additions in advance of this week's MLS Expansion Draft.  Kratz joins Chris McCann and Harrison Heath as well as Homegrown Chis Goslin in central midfield.  

"I want to thank the Philadelphia Union for welcoming me to Major League Soccer," remarked Kratz. "Although it was a short period, the Union players, fans and staff treated me well.  I also want to thank Atlanta United for identifying me as someone to help the club in its first MLS season.  The project is one I have yet to be a part of and cannot wait to meet all the fans and get settled with my wife and daughter."

Kratz joins Atlanta after a 3-month stint with the Philadelphia Union after signing at the MLS Roster Freeze for depth purposes, as the Union looked to make the Playoffs for the second time in two seasons.  Although Kratz did not make an appearances, Head Coach Jim Curtin praised Kratz during training.  Atlanta United aggressively pursued Kratz after its Front Office members had tracked Kratz for several years.  Prior to joining the Union, Kratz played for Bundesliga 2 club Sandhausen SV.  His 2015-16 season ended prematurely after suffering a foot injury that was mis-diagnosed.  Prior to his injury, Kratz started the club's first 7 games primarily as the #10 Attacking Midfielder, providing two assists, an 818.% passing success rate and ranked Top 15 in the league in numerous categories (Distance Covered, Runs, Passes Completed). 

"I cannot stress how happy I am for Kevin to realize his goal to play in MLS, and it is more special to do so with an Expansion club" says SSM's President and USSF Licensed Intermediary Justin B. Stone. "Atlanta United is setting the bar very high for expansion franchises and are committing lots of resources and experts around the club. I want to publicly thank President Darren Earles, Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra and Director of Soccer Operations Paul McDonough for their professionalism throughout the process. I look forward to Kevin wearing black, gold and red and having a successful career in Atlanta."

The 29-year old German will bring his experience and versatility to Atlanta.  With over 275 professional games in Germany, Kratz can play anywhere in midfield and is known for his passing/technical ability, high work rate and fearless taclking ability. He can use both feet well and often takes free kicks and corner kicks for his club.  

Check out his highlights below and SSM wishes Kevin well with his new club!