Discover the rich history, titles, idol players and legendary coaches of Internacional de Porto Alegre, one of the giants of Brazilian football.
ATLANTA UNITED – UNITED STATES: A NEW POWERHOUSE IN NORTH AMERICAN FOOTBALL
Atlanta United is not just another club. Since its founding in 2014 and debut in 2017, this Georgia-based team has revolutionized MLS with its attacking style of play, passionate fanbase, and titles won in record time. In this overview, we'll tell you how it was founded, what makes it unique, who its stars were on the field, and which coaches left their mark. If you appreciate beautiful football, Atlanta is a case study in itself. Whether you're an MLS fan or not, this is sure to captivate you.
Club Foundation and Early Steps
Atlanta United FC was founded in 2014, but began competing in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2017. It is owned by Arthur Blank, the same owner of the Atlanta Falcons of the NFL. From the outset, the project was ambitious: its own stadium, a professional structure, and signings with a vision for the future.
In its first matches, it already showed that it was there to compete. The Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with a capacity of over 70,000 people, was packed every matchday, creating an atmosphere worthy of the best South American or European stadiums. The club connected with the city and built a solid and vocal fanbase from day one.
Debut, immediate impact, and attacking style
In their debut season in 2017, the team qualified for the playoffs, a rare feat for a new club. Their approach was clear: high pressing, vertical play, and Latin American talent as their backbone. Its success was also reflected in the media, attracting new fans to soccer in the U.S.
Officially founded in 2014, it debuted in MLS in 2017.
Owned by Arthur Blank, a sports entrepreneur.
It plays at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with state-of-the-art technology.
From its first year, it was a leading force in the league.
Atlanta United didn't just adapt, it came to dictate terms. Their arrival changed the way new teams think about themselves in MLS: with a global vision, strong investment, and an identity from day one.
Titles, Records, and Unforgettable Nights
In just their second year, Atlanta United was already lifting their first major trophy. In 2018, they won the MLS Cup under the leadership of Gerardo “Tata” Martino, defeating the Portland Timbers in the final with an attacking and balanced style of play. It was a turning point in the history of the league.
The title was celebrated by more than 70,000 people in the stadium and millions more on social media. They didn't just win, they dominated. That year they also broke average attendance records across MLS and made it clear that the southern US is soccer territory.
More Cups and International Presence
After the league title, the club wasn't satisfied. They won the U.S. Open Cup in 2019 and the Campeones Cup that same year. They have also had outstanding performances in the CONCACAF Champions League, where they reached the semifinals, eliminating traditional Mexican and Central American teams along the way.
2018 MLS Cup Champion.
Winner of the U.S. Open Cup 2019.
Campeones Cup 2019 against Club América of Mexico.
Record attendance in MLS matches.
Notable appearances in the Concacaf Champions League.
Atlanta United's legacy is not measured only in trophies, but in how it helped change the perception of soccer in the U.S. A young club with the soul of a giant.
Club Idols and Historic Coaches
Atlanta United invested heavily in young, promising players. One of the most important was Josef Martínez, the Venezuelan striker who became the club's all-time leading scorer. In 2018, he broke records by scoring 31 goals in the regular season and was key to the MLS title. He won the hearts of the fans with goals, charisma, and commitment.
Miguel Almirón (now in the Premier League), Gonzalo "Pity" Martínez, Ezequiel Barco, and Brad Guzan, the experienced goalkeeper who has been a leader in defense, also shone. These players not only played well, they built the club's identity on the field.
Coaches who marked an era
The club's first great coach was Gerardo “Tata” Martino, former coach of the Argentine national team and FC Barcelona. Under his leadership, Atlanta developed a fast, attacking, and modern style of play. His impact was immediate: he led the team to the playoffs in 2017 and made them champions in 2018. After his departure, Frank de Boer won two cups (Open and Campeones Cup), although without the same connection with the fans.
Josef Martínez: ultimate idol, top scorer and MVP in 2018.
Miguel Almirón: attacking mastermind, now at Newcastle.
Brad Guzan: goalkeeper with international experience.
Tata Martino: the manager who led the club to glory.
Frank de Boer: added titles in 2019. Atlanta United was built in record time with a mix of talent, ambition, and good management. Its idols and coaches continue to set trends in MLS and beyond. And this is just the beginning.
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