In 2018, a young Eduard Atuesta arrived in Los Angeles from Independiente Medellín in Colombia. He was full of hope for the future but unsure of what LAFC, then an expansion team, would become.
Atuesta quickly became a key player and fan favorite for LAFC, helping them establish themselves in MLS. After a successful loan spell in 2018, he signed a three-year contract with the club.
In 2022, Atuesta moved to Brazilian giants Palmeiras, where he won six trophies and reached the FIFA Club World Cup final. However, after an ACL injury, he returned to his beloved LAFC on loan in February 2024.
Atuesta feels a deep connection with LAFC and its supporters, the 3252. He told MLSsoccer.com, "LAFC, the 3252 and I, we grew up together. We were formed together."
Atuesta is a club legend for his role in helping LAFC win the 2019 Supporters' Shield. He is back contributing significantly with goals, assists, and his usual high work rate.
LAFC has undergone a rebuild after losing players like Carlos Vela and Giorgio Chiellini. Despite the changes, Atuesta has integrated well and feels he never left.
Atuesta enjoys spending time with his family on the beach and exploring the Latino communities in LA, especially the Mexican community.
Atuesta is proud of Colombia's run to the Copa América final and hopes to return to the national team himself soon.
Atuesta's national team aspirations were put on hold due to injury, but he is working hard to regain his fitness and earn a spot in Colombia's 2026 World Cup squad.
