After a string of lackluster performances and disappointing results, Atlanta United made the tough decision to part ways with head coach Gonzalo Pineda. The team’s recent 3-2 loss to Charlotte was the final straw, pushing Atlanta further away from playoff contention in the Major League Soccer.
Under Pineda’s guidance, Atlanta United managed only one victory in their last 11 games, with their only bright spot being a surprising 3-1 win over Inter Miami. The team’s record of 1-6-4 during this stretch has left them sitting at 13th in the Eastern Conference and 24th overall in MLS.
Assistant coach Rob Valentino will take over as the interim coach while Atlanta begins the search for Pineda’s successor. Club CEO and president Garth Lagerwey expressed gratitude for Pineda’s dedication over the last four seasons but emphasized the need for a new direction to turn their season around in the second half.
In addition to Pineda, assistant coaches Diego de la Torre and Eugenio Villazón were also let go by Atlanta United. However, goalkeeper coach Liam Curran will remain in his current role amidst the shakeup in the coaching staff.
Despite a relatively short tenure, Pineda led Atlanta to a 34-34-39 record in league play since taking over during the 2021 season. The team managed to make two playoff appearances under his leadership, but unfortunately, they were eliminated in the opening round on both occasions.
Atlanta United’s decision to part ways with Gonzalo Pineda underscores the team’s commitment to turning around their season and returning to playoff contention. As the search for a new head coach begins, the focus will be on finding the right leader to guide the team to success on the field.