It was Homegrown history for Luke Brennan Saturday night. Atlanta United's midfielder from right here in Atlanta made his first career start for the 5-Stripes in their match against Charlotte FC July 19.
Brennan's roots with Atlanta United run deep. He was a member of the club's inaugural Academy class and signed a Homegrown contract March 9, 2023 that began in 2024. The midfielder made his way up the ranks and had made 13 appearances for the first team since his debut June 21, 2023 against New York City FC. They were all substitute stints, but now the 14th was his first chance to start.
Most of Brennan's playtime over the last couple of seasons has come with Atlanta United 2, where he's made six starts this season, earning three goal contributions. In 2024, he played nearly 900 minutes with the 2s, scoring four goals and adding two assists.
Head coach Ronny Deila has demonstrated his faith in the young midfielder over the last couple of matches, bringing Brennan on as a substitute in each of the last three matches. He played a huge part in Atlanta United's draw on the road against Toronto FC, drawing the penalty that Latte Lath converted in the 101st minute to tie the game.
Brennan played 72 minutes Saturday night and showed his skillset as a direct winger, taking on defenders and putting in dangerous crosses.
