Atlanta United Overview
Atlanta United FC is a professional American soccer club based in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 2014, the team began play in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2017 as the league’s twenty-second franchise. They compete in the Eastern Conference and play home matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Owned by Arthur Blank and presided over by Garth Lagerwey, Atlanta United quickly established itself as a competitive force, winning the MLS Cup in 2018, the U.S. Open Cup in 2019, and the Campeones Cup in 2019. The club is known for its strong fanbase, nicknamed “The Five Stripes,” and for setting MLS attendance records. Atlanta United also operates a reserve team, Atlanta United 2, competing in MLS Next Pro.
Founding and Organizational Origins
The club was founded on April 16, 2014, when Major League Soccer awarded an expansion franchise to Arthur Blank’s ownership group. Blank, also owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, aimed to bring top-tier professional soccer to Atlanta, a city that had been without an MLS team since the early 2000s. The team’s name, logo, and colors were unveiled in 2015, featuring black, red, and gold to symbolize strength, passion, and excellence. The identity was shaped with strong community involvement, reflecting the city’s heritage and values.
Growth Into Major League Soccer Competition
Atlanta United began play in MLS in 2017, becoming the first MLS franchise based in Atlanta. The club shared Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the Atlanta Falcons, creating a modern and large-capacity venue for soccer. Gerardo Martino was appointed as the first head coach, guiding the team to its first playoff appearance in its debut season. The organization quickly built a competitive roster and established strong technical and operational foundations, including launching a reserve team and youth academy to develop local talent.
Atlanta United Competitive Journey
Since its inception, Atlanta United has rapidly progressed within MLS, achieving significant success early in its history. The team has demonstrated competitive consistency, capturing major trophies and setting attendance records, while fostering a passionate supporter culture.
Early Seasons and Development (2017–2018)
In its inaugural 2017 season, Atlanta United played its first match at Bobby Dodd Stadium before moving to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The team quickly gained attention for its high attendance and competitive performances, finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference and qualifying for the playoffs. Key players and staff established the foundation for success, with the club breaking league attendance records and building a strong fanbase.
In 2018, Atlanta United achieved its breakthrough by winning the MLS Cup in only its second season. The team finished second in the Eastern Conference and Supporters’ Shield standings, advancing through the playoffs to defeat the Portland Timbers in the final. Josef Martínez was named league MVP, and head coach Gerardo Martino earned Coach of the Year honors. This championship marked the city’s first major sports title since 1995.
Breakthrough in MLS (2018–2019)
Following the MLS Cup victory, Atlanta United continued its competitive momentum by securing the U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup in 2019. The club maintained a strong roster and coaching staff, with Frank de Boer succeeding Martino as head coach. Atlanta United became the first U.S. club to defeat a Mexican side in the Campeones Cup, highlighting its growing stature in North American soccer. Despite playoff eliminations, the team remained a top contender in the Eastern Conference.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2020–Present)
In recent years, Atlanta United has undergone coaching changes, with Gabriel Heinze, Gonzalo Pineda, and interim coach Rob Valentino leading the team at various points. The club has continued to invest in player acquisitions, including record-breaking signings such as Emmanuel Latte Lath in 2025. Atlanta United maintains strong ownership under Arthur Blank and operational leadership by Garth Lagerwey. The team continues to compete in MLS with ambitions to return to championship contention while expanding its youth academy and reserve team programs.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
Atlanta United is known for its attacking style, passionate fan support, and strong home-field advantage at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The club emphasizes community engagement, player development through its academy, and strategic roster building to maintain competitiveness.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
The club’s first MLS Cup win in 2018 stands as a landmark achievement, accompanied by multiple attendance records and the establishment of a vibrant supporter culture. The Golden Spike tradition and reserved jersey numbers for fans and Hank Aaron exemplify the club’s connection to its city and history.
Atlanta United Achievements and Results
Atlanta United has secured multiple major trophies since its MLS debut, including one MLS Cup, one U.S. Open Cup, and one Campeones Cup. The club has set attendance records and developed a strong competitive reputation within MLS.
MLS Achievements
Atlanta United won the MLS Cup in 2018, marking a rapid rise to the top of the league. The club also secured the Eastern Conference championship the same year. These successes established Atlanta as a premier MLS franchise.
Conference Achievements
The team has won the Eastern Conference title once, in 2018, and has consistently been a playoff contender. The club’s competitive presence in the conference has helped elevate the profile of soccer in the southeastern United States.
Divisional Achievements
While specific divisional titles are not recorded, Atlanta United’s strong performances in the Eastern Conference reflect consistent success at the divisional level.
Series Achievements
Beyond MLS, Atlanta United has won the U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup in 2019, demonstrating the club’s ability to compete and succeed in multiple competitions across North America.
