Atlanta United Rehires Gerardo Martino as Head Coach Until 2027

ATLANTA, Ga. — Gerardo Martino has returned to Atlanta United as head coach, signing a contract through the 2027 MLS season. The announcement was made Thursday, marking his return to the team he led to the MLS Cup in 2018 after a seven-year absence.

Martino expressed gratitude towards club owner Arthur Blank and chief soccer officer Chris Henderson in a statement. “I want to thank them for the opportunity to return to a club and city where we hold wonderful memories,” he said. “Our objective will always be to form a winning team that makes our fans feel proud and well-represented.”

Martino, who is 62 years old, will be introduced next week. Blank said he is excited to see Martino back, noting his past success in establishing the club’s identity in Major League Soccer. “This moment is not about revisiting the past but about building a new foundation,” Blank said.

The challenge for Martino will be significant. He is taking over a team that finished the previous season with a franchise-low of 28 points. The roster’s performance sharply declined compared to his first tenure, which saw the team score 70 goals in both of his initial seasons.

Since Martino’s departure in 2018, the team has struggled, winning only two playoff series under interim manager Rob Valentino after Frank de Boer’s firing. After leading Miami to several successes, including the Leagues Cup and Supporters Shield, Martino is expected to develop a new strategy with his former players, including Miguel Almirón, Emmanuel Latte Lath, and Alexey Miranchuk.

“Tata’s teams have a clear identity, and his success, along with his understanding of our league, is well established,” Henderson said. The Atlanta United organization hopes Martino will reinvigorate their performance and competitiveness in MLS.