Atlanta United has made a significant signing, bringing in winger Saba Lobjanidze from Turkish Süper Lig side Hatayspor. The Georgian international has signed a contract through the 2026 season and will occupy a Designated Player spot and international roster slot, pending the receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 Visa.
Atlanta United Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “Saba is a player we had been speaking with since early in the transfer window and he continued to show his commitment and desire to come to Atlanta throughout the process. Saba brings international quality and experience having played in World Cup and UEFA Euro qualifying in addition to top leagues in Europe. We look forward to integrating him into the team as quickly as possible.”
Lobjanidze, 28, was born in Tbilisi, Georgia, and brings a wealth of playing experience to Atlanta United. He has made 288 total appearances, scoring 69 goals and providing 57 assists across all club competitions since the 2014-15 season. He began his professional career with his hometown club Dinamo Tbilisi, where he won two trophies, the Georgian Cup and Supercup, in his debut season. Lobjanidze then moved to Denmark, playing for Randers FC before transferring to Ankaragücü in the Turkish Süper Lig.
After successful stints in Denmark and Turkey, Lobjanidze joined Hatayspor in the summer of 2021. In his first season with Hatayspor, he scored eight goals and provided eight assists in the Süper Lig. However, the season was cut short for the club due to an earthquake, and Lobjanidze spent the remainder of the year on loan at Karagümrük.
Internationally, Lobjanidze has earned 34 caps for the Georgian National Team. He has experience playing in World Cup and UEFA Euro Qualifiers, as well as the UEFA Nations League. In a recent match against Cyprus, Lobjanidze came off the bench and provided the game-winning assist in a 2-1 victory.
Here is a brief player profile of Saba Lobjanidze:
– Name: Saba Lobjanidze
– Pronunciation: Sah-bah Lobe-jah-neat-zey
– Position: Winger
– Height: 5-9
– Birthdate: December 18, 1994 (28)
– Birthplace: Tbilisi, Georgia
– Citizenship: Georgia
The signing of Saba Lobjanidze is a significant move for Atlanta United, adding international quality and experience to their roster. Fans can look forward to seeing Lobjanidze in action once he receives his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 Visa.
Source: Atlanta United Communications – @ATLUTD
How does Saba Lobjanidze’s signing enhance Atlanta United’s attacking options?
D Cup Qualifiers for Georgia, and we believe he will provide another attacking option for our team.”
Lobjanidze, 24, started his career with Georgian club Dinamo Tbilisi before moving to Turkish club Hatayspor in 2020. During his time at Hatayspor, he made 31 appearances and scored 4 goals, helping the club to a fifth-place finish in the Turkish Süper Lig.
With his technical skills, speed, and ability to play on either wing, Lobjanidze is expected to add depth and creativity to Atlanta United’s attack. His signing also strengthens the team’s international presence, as he joins other international players such as Josef Martinez, Ezequiel Barco, and Marcelino Moreno.
Head coach Gabriel Heinze sees Lobjanidze as a valuable addition to the team, saying, “Saba is a young and talented player who fits our style of play. He has the ability to make an impact in matches and we are excited to see him in an Atlanta United jersey.”
Lobjanidze is eager to join his new team and make an impact in Major League Soccer. He said, “I am very happy to be joining Atlanta United. It is a great opportunity for me to continue my career and I am ready to contribute to the team’s success.”
With the addition of Lobjanidze, Atlanta United is looking to make a strong push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The team currently sits in ninth place, just three points behind the final playoff spot.
The signing of Lobjanidze showcases Atlanta United’s commitment to strengthening their squad and competing at the highest level. As they continue to build their team, fans can expect exciting and competitive soccer from the club in the upcoming seasons.
Atlanta United continues to make impressive signings, and the addition of Georgian international Saba Lobjanidze as a designated player is no exception. Excited to see how his skills contribute to the team’s success! #ATLUnited
“Exciting news from Atlanta United as they sign Georgian International Saba Lobjanidze as their newest Designated Player! Can’t wait to see his impact on the team’s success. Welcome, Saba!”