Former Argentina, Barcelona manager front-runner for Atlanta United job?

Out of nowhere on Thursday morning, a rumor popped up linking former Argentina national team manager, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, to the open Atlanta United manager position.

Moises Linares, a TV presenter employed by Telemundo in Washington and covers DC United, is convinced that Martino is the man that Atlanta United have chosen to be their first ever manager.

Martino, 53, was last seen at the Copa America Centenario with Argentina. He resigned from his post on July 5th stating the Argentine FA was undergoing “serious problems.” He led La Albiceleste to a second straight runner-up finish at the Copa America.

Before managing Lionel Messi with Argentina he was also his manager at Barcelona where he won the Spanish Super Cup in 2013.

He has also managed the Paraguay national team, Newell’s Old Boys, and many other clubs around South America.

If this rumor comes to fruition, Atlanta United would have a real Argentinian presence as their first ever Designated Player, Hector Villalba, hails from there as well.

At the very least, this is finally another rumor that can be taken seriously. We haven’t seen a name pop up since last December when Josh Wolff’s name was mentioned.

Atlanta United had no comment on the rumor, only that they are still interviewing candidates at this time.

What would you think of this hire? Is Martino the man for the job? Let us know in the comments below.