Atlanta United’s center back and captain Michael Parkhurst announced on Monday that he is currently playing his last season as a professional soccer player. Parkhurst will retire at the end of 2019 MLS season and put an end to an impressive career that spanned over 15 years.
“Well, the time has come for me, unfortunately,” – said Parkhurst in a video announcement. “I know I’m one of the lucky ones to be able to say that I’ve really, really enjoyed what I’ve been able to do the last 15 years. To kick a soccer ball and get paid for, it has been an absolute dream come true.”
Parkhurst joined Atlanta United ahead of the team’s inaugural MLS season in 2017 and became the captain the following year. During his time with the organization, he helped the team win MLS Cup, Campeones Cup and the U.S. Open Cup. The 35-year-old will now be looking to try and make another deep playoff run with Atlanta, who are currently at the second spot in the East, before he calls it quits.
“We want to congratulate Michael on an illustrious career and thank him for immense contributions to Atlanta United,” – said team’s technical director Carlos Bocanegra said. “His career accolades speak for themselves, but during his time in Atlanta, he was a consummate professional and played an integral role for us, both on and off the field.”
Michael Parkhurst began his career with the New England Revolution, before heading to Europe, where he played with Nordsjælland and FC Augsburg. He returned to MLS in 2014, signing with Columbus Crew SC and playing for three seasons there before joining Atlanta.
Parkhurst was also U.S. international, making 25 appearances with USMNT between 2007 and 2014.
