Paraguayan footballer Miguel Almirón is an influential player both in Major League Soccer (MLS) and on the international stage. Known for his time with Atlanta United and Newcastle United, he enters the 2026 World Cup with significant credentials and expectations.
Miguel Almirón: A Star of Atlanta United
Almirón rejoined Atlanta United in 2025 after a fruitful spell in the English Premier League. Initially, he joined the team in 2017, leading them to their first MLS Cup championship in 2018. This triumph occurred during the club’s second year, where he showcased his skills alongside Venezuelan striker Josef Martínez.
MLS Achievements
- 27 goals and 38 assists in 101 MLS appearances.
- Twice named to the MLS Best XI (2017, 2018).
- Two-time MLS All-Star (2017, 2018).
- 2017 MLS Newcomer of the Year.
Under the guidance of coach Tata Martino, Almirón aims to help Atlanta United reclaim its previous glories.
International Experience and World Cup Journey
As a veteran player for Paraguay, Almirón has earned 75 caps, making him one of the most experienced members of La Albirroja. He is the team’s leading goal scorer with nine international goals, closely followed by Antonio Sanabria, who has scored seven.
This World Cup will mark Almirón’s debut on the grandest stage of football.
World Cup Schedule for Paraguay
Paraguay is placed in Group D, competing against the United States, Australia, and Türkiye. Here are their matches:
- June 12: Paraguay vs. United States at 9 PM ET | Los Angeles, California
- June 19: Paraguay vs. Türkiye at 11 PM ET | San Francisco, California
- June 25: Paraguay vs. Australia at 10 PM ET | San Francisco, California
2026 World Cup Format
The upcoming tournament will feature an expanded format with 48 teams participating, up from the traditional 32. The top two teams from each group, along with the top eight third-place teams, will move to the knockout stage, known as the Round of 32.
The competition will take place from June 11 to July 19, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Paraguay’s World Cup History
This will be the ninth appearance for Paraguay in the World Cup and their first since 2010. Previously, they reached the quarterfinals, marking their best finish to date. Paraguay secured its spot in the tournament by finishing sixth in the South American qualifying rounds with 28 points.
Miguel Almirón’s journey in this World Cup represents a significant chapter in both his career and Paraguay’s football history. As he steps onto the pitch, fans and teammates alike will be watching closely to see how he performs on this prestigious stage.
