The Daily Dirt, January 1: A new year is here

2017 is upon us. Back when it was announced MLS was coming to Atlanta almost three years ago, 2017 seemed like this number way off in the distance. Sometimes, you had to wonder if it would ever get here. Mariah Carey had to wonder if 2016 would ever end last night.

United enters the year with a nearly full roster, an internationally respected manager, and plaudits about how they are charting a new course for MLS expansion clubs. Did any of you expect this back in 2014? Arthur Blank mentioned from Day 1 that he wanted the team to be competitive from the start, but few could have expected his efforts to get the team there.

This all gets real very soon with training camp, preseason games, and a season opener in just over two months. We talked about it a little bit on Friday’s Peachtree Post, what is your bold prediction for Atlanta United’s 2017 season? Give us something more than “making the playoffs” or “winning a trophy”. Give us your predictions below in the comments.

The growth of this site has been amazing over the last year, and we owe all of that to you. Thanks for reading and sharing the work we do. All of us here at Dirty South Soccer are incredibly thankful for your support!

Domestic

A list of the top 10 American players in the league (MLS)

New Year’s resolutions across MLS (FourFourTwo)

USL attendance increased 33% in 2016 (USL)

International

Is Gedion Zelalem a target of Borussia Dortmund? (Stars and Stripes FC)

A preview of the January transfer window (ESPN)

Chelsea proves that they can win any type of game (SB Nation)