Former Manchester United and Argentina defender Gabriel Heinze has been named as the new head coach of MLS side Atlanta United.
Atlanta won the MLS Cup just two years ago but they have struggled ever since and it is Heinze – who also came out for Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Marseille and Roma during his career. – to become the fourth coach in their history.
Heinze, who previously dominated Velez Sarsfield in Argentina’s premier division, is expected to play a more aggressive style of play at Atlanta, similar to the one who helped the franchise win the case in their second season in MLS.
“We cast the net wide for this important appointment, and Gabriel quickly emerged as the No. 1 candidate,” Chelmsford’s Atlanta United president Darren Eales said in a statement.
“Gabriel is one of the top coaches in South American football and we are thrilled that he chose Atlanta United.”
Frank de Boer, former head coach of MLS Atlanta United, who is now manager of the Netherlands
Stephen Glass, a former Aberdeen, Newcastle and Watford player took over the team in July after Frank de Boer was sacked but could not turn his fortune around as they lost out on the MLS Cup playoffs for the first time in four years.
“I believe my philosophy of football is aligned with the vision of the club and their structure and facilities are world class,” said Heinze, who will be formally introduced. in Atlanta next week.
“I can’t wait to meet the players, staff and fans and get to work in 2021.”
Atlanta technical director Carlos Bocanegra is also convinced that Heinze is the right man for the job.
“Since we launched Atlanta United, our goal has been clear – to play an aggressive, mind-blowing style of play,” the former U.S. defender said.
“Gabriel fits that model and has a dynamic style of play that aligns with our club identity.”