MLS
Martino To Depart Atlanta United, Mexico Job Closes
Atlanta United have announced that Argentinian manager Tata Martino will depart the club at the end of the season.
Martino has declined to extend his contract with the club beyond 2018. His contract ends after his side ends their participation in the MLS playoffs.
Atlanta manager said to the club’s website:
“This was not an easy decision to make, I have enjoyed my time with Atlanta United very much and am proud of what we have accomplished together in such a short time. The decision was not made for financial reasons, negotiations with the front office were transparent and fair. It was simply the right move for me and my family at this time. The opportunity to build a team from the start does not come along often, and I am grateful to the club and to the fans for putting their trust in me to establish a solid foundation here in Atlanta. What is most important now is that the focus remain on our goals for this season.”
The 55-year-old became the club’s first head coach in their inaugural season. With two seasons under his belt, Tata has compiled a record of 38-17-17 in all competitions while making two back-to-back MLS Cup Playoffs appearances.
Atlanta holds the first place in the Eastern Conference with 69 points with one more game to go.
If Atlanta wins, the club and Tata would be establishing a new MLS record with most points in a season. They would also reach that record with a draw and if New York Red Bulls lose.
Mexico Calling?
To no one’s surprise, Martino has been in many national teams list of potential hires. Among those national teams, Argentina, Colombia, United States and Mexico.
Argentina seems like the obvious choice. However, he had that experience before and probably wants to vindicate himself after an atrocious time with the Argentinian side.
The rumors started in Argentina when Fox Sports Emiliano Pinson informed AFA had direct conversations with Tata in September.
Additionally, in an interview with Colombian Radio (also in September), he explained how the Colombian post was “attractive” to him. However, he kicked the ball out to the corner after saying he was still under contract with Atlanta.
Meanwhile, its been said that US Soccer with Earnie Stewart at the helm have been hopeful runners to signing the Argentinian coach. However, is being said that Tata has already turned down the post.
And that leaves Mexico. Yes, Mexico.
Among several Mexican and American media outlets, like ESPN Deportes, Martino has been the front-runner to take the Mexico national team post.
ESPN reports that Martino would assume his role as El Tri’s manager in December.
ESPN Deportes’ Hernan Pereyra and Jose Ramon Fernandez both claim the news and added that a verbal agreement is in place.
Tata’s Resume
Perhaps his biggest accolade is the style of play in which his teams play.
Martino prefers to play a very high pressing and attacking style of football. Mostly, his side has always been distinguished for attack-minded, creative and quick passing style.
Despite his head-turning season at Atlanta, Martino has managed Paraguay’s national team and Argentina.
While with Paraguay, Martino reached the quarterfinals and lost to Spain who later became champions of the competition.
Meanwhile at Argentina, Martino reached the Copa America and Copa America Centenario finals. Both times losing to Chile.
Nevertheless, his time at Barcelona was his most criticized. He left the club after a year and only winning the Spanish Super Cup.
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Photo credit to Terry Saunders via Flickr
