Atlanta United celebrated one of the biggest transfers in MLS history by unveiling Breel Embolo to supporters before securing a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The club confirmed earlier on Sunday that the Switzerland international had signed a four-year contract after joining from Ligue 1 side Rennes for a reported $18 million fee. Embolo scored 10 goals and provided three assists during his only season with Rennes, having previously moved there from Monaco.

Henderson backs Embolo's impact

Embolo, 29, has scored 100 goals in 380 career appearances since beginning his professional journey with Basel. His career has also included spells with Schalke, Borussia Monchengladbach, Monaco and Rennes.

Atlanta sporting director Chris Henderson said the forward's experience and versatility would strengthen the club's attack.

“We're pleased to bring a player with Breel's combination of talent and experience at the highest levels of world soccer to Atlanta United,” Henderson said on the club's website.

“His goalscoring, ability to link with other players in the attack and tireless work rate are qualities that will strengthen our team from the centre-forward position.”

Embolo was also praised for his contribution to Switzerland's World Cup run, during which he scored twice and supplied two assists as his team reached the quarter-finals. Switzerland's campaign ended in extra time against Argentina, with Embolo's red card for simulation proving costly.

Almiron sets Atlanta assist record

Atlanta made sure Embolo's first day with the club ended on a positive note. Tomas Jacob and Fafa Picault scored in the first half to give the hosts a 2-1 win over Sporting Kansas City and extend their winning streak to three matches.

Miguel Almiron created both goals, taking his career total of assists for Atlanta across two spells to 43 and setting a new club record. The result lifted Atlanta to 12th in the Eastern Conference, just three points from the playoff places.

New England and NYCFC share the points

The other MLS match on Sunday ended in a 1-1 draw between New England Revolution and New York City FC at Gillette Stadium. Carles Gil saw an early penalty and the rebound saved by Matt Freese before Dor Turgeman put New England ahead in the 36th minute.

James Sands equalised in first-half stoppage time, securing a point for NYCFC. New England remain fourth in the Eastern Conference, eight points clear of the wild-card positions, while NYCFC sit seventh, one point ahead of the New York Red Bulls.