Major League Soccer was forced to apologize after its website published the name of a player it falsely claimed would join Atlanta United.
An article posted on Wednesday suggested that Celtic forward Kyōgo Furuhashi would come to the United States to play in Atlanta, but it was ultimately removed from the league's website.
MLS attempted to reach a settlement with the “affected parties” in a statement Thursday.
“An article has been published on the Major League Soccer website that incorrectly lists the names of players who have signed with MLS clubs,” the league said in a statement. “The article was immediately removed and corrected. MLS sincerely apologizes to the affected parties.”
Last month, the Daily Mail reported that Atlanta United had made a $12 million transfer offer for the 29-year-old Furuhashi.
Part of the confusion stemmed from social media posts by MLS clubs. According to ESPNwhere they teased news of player contracts involving Japanese players.
In player news, it has been revealed that Sagan Tosu FW Cayman Togashi has joined the team.
Celtic's Kogo Furuhashi's performance. Reuters
Coincidentally, Atlanta hired former Celtic manager and NYCFC coach Ronnie Deila in December.
Furuhashi featured for Celtic on Wednesday, coming off the bench in the second half of Celtic's 2-0 win over Dundee United.
Furuhashi has recorded 10 goals and 3 assists in official games this season.
With just over a month until the start of the MLS season, Atlanta is scheduled to open the 2025 season at home against Montreal.
