Atlanta United FC Hires First Head Coach

ATLANTA, GA — Atlanta's new MLS franchise now has its first-ever head coach.

Atlanta United announced on Tuesday that Gerardo “Tata” Martino has been hired. Martino has led the Argentina National Team, Paraguay National Team and La Liga’s FC Barcelona during his 20-year coaching career.

Martino will be introduced to the media on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 10 am.

“We are delighted that a manager of Gerardo’s caliber and pedigree will be leading our team into our inaugural season,” said Atlanta United President Darren Eales. “His deep experience and success at both the club and international levels speak for itself, and his vision and approach aligns very well with our club philosophy. We’re confident in his ability to help build a winning culture both on and off the pitch.”

Martino, 53, most recently managed the Argentina National Team from 2014 to 2016, leading Argentina back to the No. 1 FIFA World ranking in July 2015. Under Martino’s leadership, Argentina appeared in the Copa America final in back-to-back years in 2015 and 2016, while finishing with a 20-4-5 overall record. Martino also managed Paraguay from 2006 to 2011, where he led La Albirroja to their best World Cup finish, advancing past the Round of 16 for the first time ever in South Africa in 2010. At the club level, Martino has most notably managed FC Barcelona (2013-14) and Newell’s Old Boys (2011-13).

“This is an incredibly exciting and historic day for our club,” said Atlanta United owner Arthur Blank. “Gerardo brings an unprecedented level of international experience to our head coaching position that will be a valuable asset to our players and demonstrates the continuing growth of Major League Soccer. We’re thrilled he’s chosen to join our club and look forward to welcoming him to Atlanta.”

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