Atlanta United star and World Cup winner Thiago Almada says he wants ‘to go to Europe NOW’ after MLS side’s first-round exit: ‘I would love to play in the Champions League’

Atlanta United's World Cup-winning midfielder Thiago Almada has said he wants to play in Europe now that the MLS season is over.

After shining in Atlanta, the 22-year-old repeated his wish to move up in the competition across the Atlantic. Almada revealed that previous ties with Dutch giants Ajax will not come to fruition as he sets his sights on La Liga.

“I want to go to Europe now,” Almada told ESPN Argentina. 'I would like to play in the Spanish premier La Liga. There was interest from Ajax, which could not continue. Now let's see.'

Almada also did not rule out the idea of ​​playing for Argentine giants Boca Juniors after receiving rave reviews from retired Argentine star Juan Román Riquelme.

“I saw what Román said,” Almada added. 'Now I want to stay there (Argentina), go to Europe. Maybe later. I would love to play in the Champions League.'

Almada spoke for the first time about his European ambitions ahead of the MLS Playoffs. However, Almada made it clear that he was focused on helping his team finish the season strong before thinking ahead.

“I want to finish the season first and then think about the future,” Almada said in November. 'In January I will see what my options are.

“It is my dream to play in Europe and I hope it comes true,” Almada added.

Almada was named MLS Young Player of the Year after scoring 12 goals and 16 assists for the five stripes last season.

Atlanta finished their campaign with a 15-9-12 (WLD) record before becoming the Columbus Crew's first casualty en route to the MLS Cup Finals.

Outside of Atlanta, Almada has made four appearances and scored one goal for the Argentina senior team. Almada also played in one match during Argentina's run to winning the FIFA World Cup in December.