The summer transfer window is open, which means the arrival of Atlanta United's latest signing, Pedro Amador.
Amador is a 25-year-old fullback from Portugal who most recently made his club debut coming on as a second-half subsitute during Atlanta's Leagues Cup match against D.C. United on July 26.
Now that he's officially introduced himself to Atlanta United supporters, we asked him 17 questions (and one extra) to help our 17s get to know him better:
Why Atlanta United?
I signed with Atlanta because they showed a lot of interest in me. Also, because I like the league. I think there’s a lot of quality in the league and it will help me to grow as a player. So, I’m very happy and here to contribute and to grow.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’m an intelligent player. I can play good passes. Someone who likes to play with my teammates, and I think I’m a fast player.
What are three words or qualities that describe you?
Humble, fun and a good friend.
Who’s joining you in Atlanta?
For the moment, just my wife. My parents are very excited to come and visit from Portugal.
Any nicknames?
I’ve always been called by my last name. Amador.
What does your home country of Portugal mean to you?
For me, it just means home in all extents of the word. I have all my family there. Every time I’m there, I enjoy it. It just means home to me.
What’s your earliest soccer memory?
My first memory is nice and it was at the time a little frustrating because I was six or seven years old and I was going with my grandpa to the park. I’m left-footed, but my grandpa would make me play with my right foot so it was even between him and me. It was frustrating for me because I couldn’t do the same things that I do with my left foot. But nowadays, I’m very thankful because it helped me a lot. Now, I’m good with both feet.
What’s something you always take with you on road trips?
Everywhere I go, I have to bring this chain with me. It has a saint and it was a gift from my grandpa, so I always bring it with me.
Do you have any rituals to get you ready before a match?
I’m not very superstitious, but my main thing is music, and I try to use music to relax. I like to go into the game very relaxed.
Any favorite musicians or genres?
Reggaeton.
Do you follow any sports besides soccer?
I follow Formula One a lot. And I watch the NBA whenever I can.
What's the best advice you’ve ever received?
My parents have always helped me and they tell me basically on a weekly basis that, regardless if a situation is good or bad, you have to keep working and be ready and prepared because life and fútbol turn around very quickly. So, if you are prepared, you’re going to have the best outcome. Always be humble and work.
Any favorite foods from back home?
I love baccalà on the grill.
Any favorite spots to relax when you go on vacation?
It’s funny because, for me, any place with a nice beach where I can relax is amazing, but for my wife, there has to be a lot of things to do. We’re always in the city because of that. And I’m just trying to find a beach.
Do you play video games?
A little bit. Mostly Call of Duty.
What inspires you go give your best on the pitch?
I keep reminding myself that yes, I work in fútbol. Fútbol is my work. It’s my passion. And I’m very lucky to be able to be able to do my passion every day. I remember this as I walk onto the pitch that I’m blessed to be able to do my passion. That’s what motivates me the most.
What's a moment from your soccer career, up to this point, that you're proud of?
The day that I signed my first professional contract. I’m still very proud of that. I was playing in a lower division, and to take that leap was amazing for me. I still remember my family and myself feeling very proud about that day.
And finally, what do you want the 17s to know about you?
I’d like to tell them that something I will always give is my best effort. I’m a very hard-working player. I’m always striving for the three points. My idea is that if we get three points, then they get joy and happiness. And that’s what we want to give them.
