Atlanta United FC parted ways with Frank De Boer as manager, the MLS club announced Friday.
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The team did not immediately announce a replacement for the Dutchman, adding that he will appoint an interim coach in the meantime.
“On behalf of Atlanta United, I would like to thank Frank for his leadership and commitment to the club,” said Atlanta United President Darren Eales. “Under Frank’s guidance, the club had a strong 2019 season in both MLS and international competition. After discussing it with Frank, the decision was made mutually. He broke up by winning two trophies in his first season in charge. part of the history of the club, and with great appreciation and respect we wish him all the best in the future. “
De Boer was the second coach of the franchise, replacing Gerardo “Tata” Martino after the Argentine won the 2018 MLS Cup and subsequently took the concert of the Mexican national team.
Under De Boer, the team made it through a difficult start to win the 2019 US Open Cup and the 2019 Champions Cup.
De Boer and Atlanta won their first two games of the 2020 regular season before their postponement due to the coronavirus pandemic. But the first game was marred when 2018 MLS MVP Josef Martinez, one of the league’s most dynamic scorers, fell with a knee injury that will likely keep him out for the rest of 2020.
When play resumed at the MLS Comeback Tournament in Orlando, Atlanta lost all three of their group games 1-0. With De Boer facing strong criticism for his team’s lack of creativity, and calling for a radical change in style, the team decided to make a change.
It was another brief training stage for the former star of the Dutch national team, who was previously fired by Internazionale in Italy’s Serie A in 2016 and Crystal Palace in England’s Premier League in 2017.
“I am grateful for the opportunity I had with Atlanta United,” said De Boer. “Training in Major League Soccer and living in Atlanta has been a wonderful experience and a new challenge. I will never forget the amazing fans here in Atlanta, they are truly special. I want to thank the players, coaches and staff for all of their support. It has been a pleasure working with all of you. “
De Boer’s most successful stint as a coach was while in charge of Ajax Amsterdam, where he won four Eredivisie league titles from 2010-16. His playing career also included long periods in Ajax and Barcelona.
Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
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