Atlanta United FC: Franchise Overview

Introduction

Atlanta United FC represents one of the most remarkable success stories in modern American sports. Since joining Major League Soccer in 2017, the club has shattered attendance records, won championships, and established itself as a model MLS franchise. Atlanta United’s immediate success validated the city’s appetite for professional soccer and demonstrated the potential for MLS in non-traditional markets.

The franchise’s combination of high-profile player acquisitions, innovative fan engagement, and on-field success has transformed expectations for MLS expansion teams. What typically takes years to build, Atlanta United accomplished in months, creating a blueprint that other MLS franchises have sought to emulate.

Franchise Identity

Founded: 2014 (awarded); 2017 (first season) Location: Atlanta, Georgia Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (shared with Atlanta Falcons) Conference: Eastern Conference Team Colors: Red, Black, Gold Nickname: The Five Stripes MLS Cup Championships: 1 (2018) U.S. Open Cup: 1 (2019) Campeones Cup: 1 (2019)

Historical Journey

Founding and Buildup (2014-2016)

MLS awarded Atlanta an expansion franchise in April 2014, with Arthur Blank’s ownership group bringing the same resources and commitment that had transformed the Atlanta Falcons. The franchise hired Gerardo “Tata” Martino as head coach, signaling ambitious intentions, and began building a roster through the expansion draft and international signings.

The decision to play at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with its capacity for over 70,000 fans, set the stage for record-breaking attendance. The club invested in marketing and community engagement, building anticipation for the inaugural season.

Inaugural Season (2017)

Atlanta United’s first season exceeded all expectations. Led by MVP candidate Miguel Almiron and Golden Boot winner Josef Martinez, the team won 55 points and qualified for the playoffs. The inaugural season set an MLS attendance record with an average of 48,200 fans per game.

The season established Atlanta as a legitimate soccer market and demonstrated that the sport could thrive in the American South. The playoff run ended in the knockout round, but the foundation for future success was firmly established.

The 2018 MLS Cup Championship

The 2018 season brought Atlanta United its first championship and one of the greatest seasons in MLS history. The team won 69 points, captured the MLS Supporters’ Shield (best regular season record), and dominated the playoffs.

In the MLS Cup Final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta United defeated the Portland Timbers 2-0 before a record crowd of 73,019. Josef Martinez opened the scoring, Franco Escobar added a second, and the party that had been building for two years reached its crescendo.

The championship validated every investment made by the ownership group and established Atlanta United as a model franchise. Tata Martino departed for Mexico after the season, but the success continued under new management.

Continued Success (2019-2021)

The 2019 season brought more silverware, with Atlanta United winning the U.S. Open Cup and the Campeones Cup (defeating Mexican champion Club America). However, the departure of Miguel Almiron and Tata Martino impacted performance, and the team was eliminated early from the playoffs.

The 2020 season was disrupted by COVID-19, and the 2021 season saw rebuilding efforts under new management. Josef Martinez remained the face of the franchise, though injuries began to limit his effectiveness.

The Current Era (2022-Present)

Recent seasons have seen Atlanta United transition to a new era following Josef Martinez’s departure in 2023. The club has focused on acquiring young talent and building for sustained success while maintaining the passionate fan support that defines the franchise.

Notable Players

Josef Martinez: The club’s all-time leading scorer with 98 MLS goals, Martinez won the 2018 MLS MVP and set records for scoring consistency. His celebrations and connection with fans made him a club legend.

Miguel Almiron: The Paraguayan playmaker was the creative force behind the 2017-2018 success before his record-breaking transfer to Newcastle United.

Miguel Ibarra: The American midfielder provided leadership and quality during the championship seasons.

Thiago Almada: The Argentine World Cup winner represents the new generation of Atlanta United stars.

Fan Culture

Atlanta United’s fan culture is among the most vibrant in MLS. The supporters’ section, led by groups like Terminus Legion and Footie Mob, creates an intimidating atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The “A-T-L” chant and unified red and black displays have become signature elements of the matchday experience.

The club’s success has helped grow soccer throughout the Southeast, with academy programs and youth development becoming increasingly important components of the organization.

Current Outlook

Atlanta United continues to pursue championships while navigating the challenges of MLS roster construction. The franchise’s resources, passionate fanbase, and commitment to excellence position it for continued success in the years ahead.

Atlanta United FC: A History of Success

Franchise Award and Buildup (2014-2016)

MLS awarded Atlanta an expansion franchise in April 2014, with Arthur Blank’s ownership group committing to a level of investment unprecedented in league history. The franchise hired Darren Eales from Tottenham Hotspur as president and began assembling a soccer operations staff that would reflect global ambitions.

The most significant hire came in September 2016, when Atlanta United announced Gerardo “Tata” Martino as head coach. Martino’s resume included coaching Argentina and Barcelona, signaling that Atlanta United intended to compete immediately rather than endure a traditional expansion learning curve.

The club began building a roster through the expansion draft and international signings. Miguel Almiron was signed as a Young Designated Player from Lanus in Argentina, becoming the franchise’s first major acquisition. Josef Martinez joined from Torino in Italy, and Carlos Carmona was signed to anchor the midfield.

Inaugural Season (2017)

Atlanta United played its first MLS match on March 5, 2017, losing 2-1 to the New York Red Bulls at Bobby Dodd Stadium (Georgia Tech’s stadium, used while Mercedes-Benz Stadium was being completed). Yamil Asad scored the club’s first goal, and the match drew 55,297 fans.

The move to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in September transformed the franchise’s potential. The venue’s capacity for over 70,000 fans allowed Atlanta United to set attendance records unmatched in MLS history. The final home match of the regular season drew 71,874 fans.

On the field, the inaugural season exceeded expectations. Atlanta United finished fourth in the Eastern Conference with 55 points, and Miguel Almiron finished second in MLS MVP voting. Josef Martinez scored 19 goals despite missing time with injuries. The playoff run ended with a 3-1 loss to Columbus in the knockout round, but the foundation was set.

The 2018 MLS Cup Championship

The 2018 season stands as the greatest in Atlanta United history. The team started strong and never looked back, winning 21 games and earning 69 points to capture the Supporters’ Shield (best regular-season record). Josef Martinez scored a league-record 31 goals and won the MLS MVP, Golden Boot, and All-Star Game MVP.

In the playoffs, Atlanta United defeated NYCFC 3-1 in the conference semifinals and came from behind to beat the New York Red Bulls 3-0 on aggregate in the conference final. The MLS Cup Final on December 8, 2018, drew 73,019 fans to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, an MLS record.

Facing the Portland Timbers, Atlanta United dominated from the start. Josef Martinez opened the scoring in the 39th minute, celebrating with his trademark acrobatic flip. Franco Escobar added a second goal in the 54th minute, and the defense held on for a 2-0 victory. Tata Martino lifted the trophy in his final match as head coach before departing to coach Mexico.

Post-Championship and Transition (2019-2021)

Frank de Boer replaced Martino as head coach and led Atlanta United to two more trophies in 2019. The team won the U.S. Open Cup, defeating Minnesota United 2-1 in the final. They also won the Campeones Cup, defeating Mexican champion Club America 3-2 in a dramatic match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

However, the 2019 MLS season ended in disappointment with a first-round playoff exit. The 2020 season was disrupted by COVID-19, and de Boer was replaced mid-season by Stephen Glass. The team struggled to find consistency without the sold-out crowds that had energized Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The 2021 season brought Gabriel Heinze as head coach, but he was dismissed mid-season following conflicts with players. The team missed the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.

The Pineda Era and Recent History (2021-Present)

Gonzalo Pineda took over as head coach in 2021 and has guided the team through a transitional period. The 2022 season saw the team return to the playoffs, though they were eliminated in the first round.

The 2023 season marked the end of an era with the departure of Josef Martinez, who left for Inter Miami after six seasons as the face of the franchise. The team focused on integrating young talent and building for the future.

Notable Moments

• First Goal: Yamil Asad vs. New York Red Bulls, March 5, 2017
• First Mercedes-Benz Stadium Match: September 10, 2017 vs. FC Dallas
• First Playoff Goal: Julian Gressel vs. Columbus, November 2017
• MLS Cup Final 2018: Franchise’s first championship
• Record Attendance: 73,019 vs. Portland Timbers (MLS Cup Final 2018)
• Martinez’s 100th Goal: October 2021, making him the fastest player to 100 MLS goals

Impact on MLS

Atlanta United’s success transformed expectations for MLS expansion teams. The investment in players, stadium, and fan experience created a new standard for the league. The franchise demonstrated that soccer could thrive in the American South and that MLS could support passionate, large-scale fanbases.

The “Atlanta United model” has been studied by other MLS franchises seeking to replicate its success. The combination of high-profile international signings, strong academy development, and premium matchday experience has influenced how the league approaches expansion and operations.

Atlanta United FC: Championships and Playoff History

MLS Cup Championships (1)

2018 MLS Cup Champions

Atlanta United won their first MLS Cup in just their second season of existence, defeating the Portland Timbers 2-0 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The victory came before a record MLS Cup crowd of 73,019 fans.

2018 Playoff Journey: - Conference Semifinals: Atlanta United 3, NYCFC 1 - Conference Final: Atlanta United 3, New York Red Bulls 0 (aggregate) - MLS Cup Final: Atlanta United 2, Portland Timbers 0

Josef Martinez scored in the 39th minute and Franco Escobar added a second goal in the 54th minute. The victory was Tata Martino’s final match as head coach.

Supporters’ Shield (1)

2018: Atlanta United won the Supporters’ Shield for the best regular-season record, finishing with 69 points (21-7-6).

U.S. Open Cup (1)

2019 U.S. Open Cup Champions

Atlanta United defeated Minnesota United 2-1 in the final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Goals from Pity Martinez and Justin Meram secured the trophy.

Campeones Cup (1)

2019 Campeones Cup Champions

Atlanta United defeated Mexican champion Club America 3-2 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The victory marked the first time an MLS team defeated a Liga MX champion in a competitive final on home soil.

Notable Playoff Performances

Josef Martinez: 8 playoff goals, including the 2018 MLS Cup Final opener Miguel Almiron: 5 playoff assists in 2018 Brad Guzan: 5 playoff clean sheets

Atlanta United FC: Notable Players

Club Legends

Josef Martinez (FW, 2017-2022)

The greatest player in Atlanta United history, Martinez scored 98 MLS goals in six seasons. He won the 2018 MLS MVP, Golden Boot, and MLS Cup MVP. His acrobatic goal celebrations and clutch performances made him a fan favorite and club icon.

Miguel Almiron (MF, 2017-2018)

The Paraguayan playmaker was the creative force behind the 2017-2018 success. His vision and passing created countless goals before his record-breaking transfer to Newcastle United.

Brad Guzan (GK, 2017-present)

The USMNT goalkeeper has been a steady presence since the club’s inception. His shot-stopping and leadership have anchored the defense through the championship era and beyond.

Michael Parkhurst (DF, 2017-2019)

The veteran defender served as captain during the championship seasons, providing leadership and organization to the back line.

Franco Escobar (DF, 2018-2021)

The Argentine defender scored the decisive goal in the 2018 MLS Cup Final and was a key defensive contributor during the championship era.

Julian Gressel (MF, 2017-2019)

The versatile midfielder provided assists and energy from the wing during the club’s first three seasons.

Ezequiel Barco (MF, 2018-2021)

The Argentine Designated Player showed flashes of brilliance and won the 2019 Campeones Cup with the club.

Current Stars

Thiago Almada: Argentine World Cup winner and creative midfielder Giorgos Giakoumakis: Greek striker with goal-scoring pedigree Brad Guzan: Veteran goalkeeper and team captain Caleb Wiley: Homegrown left back with USMNT potential

Academy Products

Atlanta United’s academy has produced several first-team contributors, including Caleb Wiley, Tyler Wolff, and Justin Garces.

Atlanta United FC: Team Records

Career Records

Goals: Josef Martinez - 98 Assists: Miguel Almiron - 33 Appearances: Brad Guzan - 150+ Shutouts: Brad Guzan - 40+ Minutes: Brad Guzan - 13,000+

Single-Season Records

Goals: Josef Martinez - 31 (2018) Assists: Miguel Almiron - 13 (2017) Points: 69 (2018) Wins: 21 (2018) Goals Scored: 70 (2018) Goals Against: 39 (2019)

Team Records

Largest Victory: 7-0 vs. New England Revolution (2018) Largest Defeat: 0-5 vs. Manchester City (friendly, 2024) Longest Winning Streak: 8 games (2018) Longest Unbeaten Streak: 13 games (2019) Highest Attendance: 73,019 (MLS Cup Final 2018) Highest Regular Season Attendance: 72,548 (2019)

MLS Records

Atlanta United holds MLS records for: - Highest single-season average attendance - Highest single-game attendance (MLS Cup Final 2018) - Fastest expansion team to win MLS Cup - Most goals by a player in a single season (Josef Martinez, 31)

Atlanta United FC: Fan Culture and Traditions

The Supporters

Atlanta United’s fan culture is among the most vibrant in MLS. The supporters’ section, led by groups like La Banda, Resurgence, and Footie Mob, creates an intimidating atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

A-T-L Chant

The “A-T-L” chant is the club’s signature, with fans spelling out the city’s airport code in a rhythmic chant that echoes throughout the stadium.

The Golden Spike

Before each match, a ceremonial golden spike is hammered by a club legend or special guest, representing the connection to Atlanta’s railroad history.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atmosphere

Despite being a shared NFL stadium, Atlanta United has transformed Mercedes-Benz Stadium into a soccer-specific atmosphere. The lower bowl configuration creates intimacy, and the supporters’ section generates tremendous noise.

March to the Match

Fans gather at the Gulch before matches for a pre-game march to the stadium, creating a parade-like atmosphere that builds anticipation.

Community Impact

Atlanta United has invested heavily in community programs, youth development, and growing soccer throughout Georgia. The club’s foundation supports numerous charitable initiatives.

Fan Engagement

The club maintains strong connections with fans through digital content, supporter events, and open training sessions. The relationship between the team and its supporters is considered a model for MLS.

Atlanta United FC: Current Status

Recent Performance

Atlanta United has been in transition since Josef Martinez’s departure in 2023. The club has focused on rebuilding around a new core of players while maintaining competitiveness.

Roster Overview

Thiago Almada represents the new face of the franchise, with his World Cup-winning pedigree and creative abilities. Giorgos Giakoumakis provides goal-scoring, while Caleb Wiley leads the homegrown contingent.

Front Office

Garth Lagerwey was hired as President and CEO in 2022, bringing experience from Seattle and LA Galaxy. Head coach Gonzalo Pineda has been tasked with building a championship contender.

Future Outlook

Atlanta United remains committed to competing for championships. The club’s resources, passionate fanbase, and commitment to excellence position it for continued success. The challenge is integrating new talent and finding the right formula to return to the top of MLS.