Newly appointed Atlanta United manager has joined up with the rest of the club’s brass at the MLS SuperDraft Combine in Orlando. While scouting potential picks for Friday’s draft, the Dutchman sat down for his first interview since being named the second manager in Atlanta’s history.
Speaking to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, de Boer talked about his goals for his new club and the process that led to him getting the job.
When asked if there was any other interest in him as a managerial candidate, he revealed that there was some from the Middle East and Asia, as well as late interest from Belgium side Anderlecht. However, he says that Atlanta was where he wanted to be.
Delving into his decision to come to MLS, he mentioned Atlanta United’s ambition, facilities, and desire to win, saying that the club’s ideals and his line up very nicely together.
“Atlanta is a club that works with young talents as one of the most important pillars, always wants to play [for trophies], has a beautiful stadium and a great youth training and fanbase. Moreover, the standards and values of the club are very well aligned with mine.“
— Frank De Boer; Source: De Telegraaf
Looking ahead to his first season in charge, de Boer says the main goal is to entertain the fans, but that it would be “wonderful” to be the first MLS team to win the Concacaf Champions League.
Finally, he mentioned the possibility of bringing over Dutch players to Atlanta with him. He acknowledged that there is a chance it could happen, but that it would be difficult to pull off considering MLS’s tight roster restrictions. However, he says any Dutch players with American passports could be very appealing to him, if those exist.
De Boer tackles several more topics in the Q&A, you can read it in full here with the help of your favorite translation program.