Noah Abatneh is a young man well-traveled. At only 20 years old, the newest Atletico’s latest signing has already journeyed around the globe, making stops at some of the most prestigious clubs.
While Abatneh arrives at Atlético having spent last season impressing with York United FC, his international travels have surely paved the way for his success on home soil.
London Calling
Noah’s footballing journey actually began in the nation’s capital, when at the age of 5, he joined local club St Anthony’s Futuro Academy, spending 3 years developing his talent.
However, it wasn’t long before Noah’s began attracting interest from farther afield. In 2014, at the age of 9, Abatneh would spend time training in England with the youth academies of London based clubs, Arsenal and Fulham. While the latter decided to offer Abatneh a contract at the time, he would return to Canada to continue to train in Ottawa.
When in Rome
Nonetheless, Abatneh’s travels had only just begun. In 2016, he would go on trial at Italian Serie A club AS Roma, joining their youth system.
After a stint with ASD Savio, he would ultimately make the move to cross-town rivals SS Lazio in 2020. Abatneh remained in the Lazio system for 3 years, being loaned out twice within Italy’s Serie D, gaining valuable experience, and key development in his game.
Donning the Maple Leaf
At the national level, Abatneh received a first call-up to train at an Under-20 Camp in 2021, and subsequent friendly matches in 2022.
He made his U-20 debut at the CONCACAF Under-20 Championships in 2022, playing under current CANMNT assistant coach Mauro Biello.
Homecoming…for now
His European adventure would eventually lead him home in 2023. Signing with York United Abatneh spent two seasons with the club, the latter of which he was nominated for the CPL’s Best Canadian Under-21 Player.
The excitement around Abatneh’s arrival is certainly justified.
As promising young Canadian talents such as former Atleti man Matteo De Brienne continue to be called abroad it might not be presumptuous for fans to wonder whether his homecoming is yet another brief stop on his already growing resume.
Prior to joining his new teammates, Noah will be making one more pitstop in Zaragoza, Spain where he will train alongside more top talent with the Segunda Division outfit before returning for training camp.
Come watch the potential CANMT players of the future right in your own backyard. Secure your Season Seats before they’re gone.
