Ozzie Alonso is back.
Alonso hadn’t played since April 2, 2022, when he tore the ACL in his right knee during a match against D.C. United after just 4 appearances with Atlanta United. He would go on to have surgery 12 days later.
After a lengthy recovery, though, the 37-year-old made his awaited return to the pitch. Atlanta United 2 on Saturday announced that he would be available for selection for Sunday’s match against Inter Miami II:
#ATLUTD2 Availability Report: Matchday 12@OzzieAlonso is available for selection and make his 2023 season debut tomorrow at Fifth Third Bank Stadium
— ATL UTD 2 (@atlutd2) June 3, 2023
With ATL UTD 2 up 1-0 over 10-man Miami, Alonso made his entrance in the 63rd minute to a nice round of applause among the crowd at Fifth Third Bank Stadium.
It’s so great to have you back, @OzzieAlonso pic.twitter.com/of3Ldb9py0
— ATL UTD 2 (@atlutd2) June 5, 2023
We likely won’t see Alonso with the first team on Wednesday against LAFC, but the veteran’s appearance on Sunday night means that a return to MLS play won’t be far off as he continues to build match fitness.