Atlanta United signed midfielder Nick Firmino to a first team contract after the player's impressive season in MLS Next Pro with Atlanta United 2.

The 22-year-old first joined the organization last year from the New England Revolution academy before managing 16 goals and 6 assists in 27 appearances for Atlanta United 2. Firmino already has experience with the first team, coming off the bench on his MLS debut against New York City FC before scoring a late equalizer to secure a 2-2 draw for Atlanta back in June.

"Nick is a player who has continued to improve and perform at a high level during the past two seasons, capped off by his MLSNP Best XI honors. He’s a versatile midfielder with a good engine who has a nose for goal. We’re excited to continue to watch his development at the club," Atlanta United vice president and technical director Carlos Bocanegra said in a release.

Not only were Firmino's efforts rewarded with a first team deal, he was also recognized in the MLS Next Pro Best XI for the 2023 season. Despite the recent deal, Firmino won't join the first team until preparations begin for the 2024 MLS season next January.

The Five Stripes return to action on Decision Day, October 21, to take on FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Atlanta sits in sixth place in the Eastern Conference table with 50 points, and they could finish in fifth place with a win over the Orange and Blue and a New England Revolution loss to Philadelphia Union, as they currently hold fifth place with 52 points.

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This article was originally published on 90min as Atlanta United sign midfielder Nick Firmino to first team contract .