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News, Blog and GuidesThe Five Stripes have parted ways with the Mexican head coach after a poor start to 2024 leaves the team mired in 13th in the East.
William GittinsWillGittUpdate: Jun 3rd, 2024 14:45 EDT0
CHANDAN KHANNAAFP
Atlanta United have parted company with Gonzalo Pineda, the Mexican head coach who took charge of the team in his first managerial back role in 2021.
Pineda’s side had recently put in a stunning road performance against Inter Miami, beating the Eastern Conference leaders 3-1, but that win was their only victory in the past 11 games. Over the course of that spell the team had dropped to 13th in the East, 24th overall in MLS, and was slipping further from the playoff picture. After Pineda’s departure assistant coach Rob Valentino will take over on an interim basis.
Atlanta United Part Ways with Head Coach
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) June 3, 2024
“We are grateful to Gonzalo for his commitment and dedication to the club over the last four seasons,” club president Garth Lagerwey said. “We made this decision in an effort to move the team in a new direction. As we continue to evaluate all aspects of our sporting operation, Rob will have our full support to turn our season around in the second half.”
Pineda sacked despite statement win over Inter Miami
The only bright spot in a gloomy 2024 for Atlanta was last week’s victory over Inter Miami, where Pineda’s team thoroughly outplayed the table-topping Herons. The Five Stripes were back to their 2023 best at Chase Stadium, with a starring performance from Thiago Almada in midfield.
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Thiago Almada was back on top form against Inter Miami.Nathan Ray SeebeckUSA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
The Argentinian No. 10 has not found his best form this season, not helped by niggling injuries, but he lived up to his billing in Miami. Designated Player forward Saba Lobzhanidze was also impressive, contributing two outstanding long-range goals.
Atlanta recorded 25 shots against Inter Miami, more than twice as many as the hosts, consistently exploiting space in transition with sharp counter-attacks.
