Atlanta United made a significant decision on Monday by firing coach Gonzalo Pineda following a series of disappointing results that left the team struggling in the MLS playoff race. The team’s recent 3-2 loss to Charlotte at home, in front of a massive crowd of over 61,000 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, was the final straw that led to Pineda’s departure.
Under Pineda’s guidance, Atlanta United managed to secure only one victory in their last 11 games, a surprising 3-1 win over Inter Miami. This poor run of form resulted in the team’s position plummeting to 13th in the Eastern Conference and 24th overall in MLS. As a result, the decision was made to relieve Pineda of his coaching duties and search for a replacement.
Assistant coach Rob Valentino has been appointed as the interim coach while Atlanta United begins the search for Pineda’s long-term successor. Club CEO and president Garth Lagerwey expressed appreciation for Pineda’s dedication over the past four seasons but emphasized the need for a fresh direction for the team. Valentino will be fully supported in his efforts to turn the team’s season around in the second half.
In addition to parting ways with Pineda, Atlanta United also let go of assistant coaches Diego de la Torre and Eugenio Villazón. However, goalkeeper coach Liam Curran will remain in his current role. Pineda, who achieved a record of 34-34-39 during his tenure as head coach, led the team to two playoff appearances but fell short in the opening round on both occasions.
Atlanta United’s decision to remove Gonzalo Pineda as coach signals a significant shift in direction for the struggling MLS team. With a new interim coach in place and a renewed focus on turning the season around, the team will be looking to make a fresh start and aim for better results in the remainder of the campaign.
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