Where we left off last year
2025 season: 28 points, 14th in the Eastern Conference, 29th in MLS
Well, uh, that sure didn't work now did it.
Atlanta United entered 2025 with big expectations, having loaded up on attackers in the form of record-breaking signing Emmanuel Latte Lath and Miguel Almiron. Ronny Deila was hired to reprise his role as an MLS Cup-winning manager, while Chris Henderson was brought in to call the shots in the front office.
Instead of beating teams in high-scoring affairs thanks to their collection of final third threats, the attack was muted. None of the Designated Players thrived. The team looked listless in every phase. Deila was axed the day after the season ended. And now they go again.
What changed in the offseason
Notable arrivals:
- Tata Martino, manager: He’s back, folks. The man who helped lead Atlanta United to MLS Cup last decade has returned to Georgia after, most recently, coaching Inter Miami during their record-setting 2024 regular season. Few have enjoyed more success in MLS than Martino — and few are more beloved in the city of Atlanta than Martino. Can he help return the Five Stripes to their old ways?
- Tomas Jacob, DM/RB: Joining as a U22 Initiative player for a reported $5 million fee, Jacob is a 21-year-old who played 1,000 minutes for Necaxa in Liga MX after signing from Newell’s Old Boys. It’s no surprise to see Atlanta United back shopping from Martino’s old stomping grounds. Jacob has been the team’s starting No. 6 in preseason.
