Tata Martino Returns as Atlanta United Head Coach

Return of Tata Martino to Atlanta United

Atlanta United has officially announced Gerardo “Tata” Martino as the new head coach, bringing an end to his two-year absence from managing the team. This move comes after a challenging season for Atlanta United in 2025, where they finished 14th in the Eastern Conference with just 28 points and missed out on the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tata back to Atlanta United,” said Arthur M. Blank, owner and chairman of the club. “Tata is an exceptional manager who set the standard for excellence within our club and helped establish our identity in Major League Soccer. Since then, he has continued to achieve success on the global stage.” Martino’s return signals a renewed focus on restoring Atlanta United’s former glory.

Previous Success with Atlanta United

During his first tenure from 2017-18, Tata Martino coached Atlanta United during their inaugural MLS season. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the team to their most successful campaign up until that point. In 2018, they secured a club-record 69 points and clinched the MLS Cup title after finishing the regular season with a record of 42 wins, 20 losses, and 16 draws.

The 62-year-old Argentine’s managerial career is marked by extensive experience. He has coached several high-profile teams including FC Barcelona, Newell’s Old Boys, and most recently Inter Miami CF during the 2023-24 seasons where he helped Miami secure their first two trophies with Leagues Cup (2023) and Supporters’ Shield (2024).

Strategic Alignment with Atlanta United

In his second stint, Martino is tasked with reviving the team’s performance. Chris Henderson, chief soccer officer and sporting director at Atlanta United, emphasized that Tata’s teams have a clear identity, and his playing style aligns well with the club values.

“The further along we went in our coaching search, the clearer it became that Tata is the best candidate to lead Atlanta United to the standard of excellence that our fans deserve,” stated Henderson. “Tata’s teams have a clear identity, and his playing style and leadership qualities align with our club values. His success, along with his understanding of our league, is well established.”

Martino’s return also marks a strategic move by Atlanta United to bring in an experienced coach who can help the team rebuild for future successes. The 2018 Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year award further underscores Martino’s ability to lead teams to victory and championship form.

Challenges Ahead

The road ahead is clear for Tata Martino as he aims to restore Atlanta United’s competitive edge. In 2025, they finished last in the Eastern Conference with only 28 points, a stark contrast from their previous record-breaking performance. The club has invested heavily in key players like Emmanuel Latte Lath, Alexey Miranchuk, and Miguel Almirón to bolster their squad.

With a new two-year contract through 2027, Martino is expected to leverage his experience and leadership skills to turn the team’s fortunes around.

The challenge will be in re-establishing Atlanta United as a force to reckon with in MLS, something that fans have long anticipated following their impressive run under Martino’s first stint.

“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,” said Martino. “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 they go to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.”

As Atlanta United looks forward to a new chapter under Tata Martino’s leadership, all eyes are on how quickly he can turn around their fortunes. The next few seasons will undoubtedly be crucial in determining the club’s trajectory towards future success.