Atlanta United Reunites with MLS Cup-Winning Manager Tata Martino for Two-Year Contract
Gerardo “Tata” Martino has made a triumphant return to Atlanta United as manager on a two-year contract, aiming to guide the team back to its former glory after a period of inconsistency post his 2018 departure.
Gerardo “Tata” Martino has returned to Atlanta United as manager on a two-year contract, the club announced Thursday. The 62-year-old reunites with the team where he arguably enjoyed his greatest success, winning the 2018 MLS Cup and being named Coach of the Year that same season. Martino now aims to restore Atlanta’s status as a contender after several years of inconsistency since his 2018 departure.The 62-year-old coach replaces Ronny Deila, whose tenure ended after a 14th-place finish in the Eastern Conference this season with just 28 points - despite having MLS's third-highest payroll at $28.5 million. Martino will also reconnect with one of his former stars in Miguel Almiron, who also rejoined the team last year after a stint with Newcastle United. “I want to thank Arthur and Chris for the opportunity to return to the club and a city where we hold wonderful memories and maintain great relationships,” Martino said in a statement. “This is a different project than my first stint with the club, however, with great ownership and the collaboration of the players, coaching staff and everyone at the club, our objective will always be to form a winning team that makes our fans feel proud and well-represented every time that they go to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.”Team owner Arthur Blank stressed the move to bring back Martino wasn't about trying to recreate the past and stressed the Argentine manager was hired to build a new foundation with the club. “Tata is an exceptional coach who set the standard for excellence within our club,” Blank said. “This is not about recreating the past, but about building a new foundation.” Martino’s career spans over 25 years and includes 11 trophies with clubs and national teams - from Barcelona and Newell’s Old Boys to Argentina, Paraguay, and Mexico.Before returning to Atlanta, Martino managed Inter Miami during the early Lionel Messi era, capturing the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 Supporters’ Shield. His deep understanding of MLS and tactical identity made him the top choice for Atlanta’s front office.During Martino’s first stint, Atlanta compiled a record of 42 wins, 20 losses, and 16 draws, setting club marks for points (124), goals (140), and goal difference (+56). Now, with a Designated Player core of Emmanuel Latte Lath, Alexey Miranchuk, and Miguel Almirón, Martino faces the challenge of reviving the Five Stripes’ competitive edge ahead of 2026.
The Reunion of Tata Martino and Atlanta United
In a thrilling announcement, Atlanta United revealed the signing of Gerardo “Tata” Martino as their manager for the upcoming two-year contract. This move marks the return of the renowned coach to the club where he achieved remarkable success, most notably securing the 2018 MLS Cup victory and earning the prestigious Coach of the Year title in the same season.
Objectives and Ambitions for the Future
As Tata Martino embarks on this new chapter with Atlanta United, his primary goal is to reshape the team and propel them back into the spotlight as serious title contenders. With a fresh perspective and a strong determination, Martino aims to instill a winning mentality within the squad and deliver outstanding performances that will make the fans proud.
Team Reconstruction and Strategic Vision
Martino's appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Atlanta United, following a disappointing season under former coach Ronny Deila. With a strategic vision in mind, Tata Martino plans to rebuild the team's foundation, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and excellence on the field. His arrival also reunites him with former star player Miguel Almiron, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the team's prospects.
Arthur Blank's Perspective on the Transformation
Team owner Arthur Blank emphasized that Tata Martino's rejoining wasn't an attempt to replicate past achievements but rather an opportunity to create a new legacy for Atlanta United. Blank highlighted Martino's exceptional coaching abilities and expressed confidence in the Argentine's capacity to lead the team towards a successful future.
Martino's Rich Coaching Legacy and MLS Expertise
With an illustrious coaching career spanning over two decades, Tata Martino brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Atlanta United. Having secured multiple trophies with prestigious clubs and national teams, Martino's tactical acumen and deep understanding of MLS make him a valuable asset for the club's development and strategic growth.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite Atlanta United's recent challenges, Tata Martino is poised to confront the obstacles head-on and revitalize the team's competitive edge. With a talented core of Designated Players and a history of remarkable performances under his belt, Martino is ready to lead the Five Stripes towards success in the upcoming seasons, igniting the passion and enthusiasm of fans once again.
