Frank de Boer out as Atlanta United manager

Atlanta United announced Friday that they’ve parted ways with manager Frank de Boer after just over a season in charge of the club. The decision comes just after the team’s dismal showing in the MLS is Back tournament that saw them finish with no points and no goals through three group matches.

“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 reached mutually to part ways. In winning two trophies in his first season in charge, he will always be a part of the club’s history, and with great appreciation and respect we wish him all the best in the future.”

Despite winning two trophies in 2019 with the Five Stripes, the identity of the team felt compromised under the Dutchman’s leadership and guidance. Players like Pity Martinez, Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Josef Martinez and Ezequiel Barco were publicly critical of De Boer’s style of play just months into his reign. The success of winning the U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup toward the end of his first year in charge helped quiet down the angst.

Unfortunately, 2020 started out as horribly as possible for the club with Josef Martinez going down with a long term injury. That blow coupled with an overturned roster left De Boer’s side with no ideas on how to create chances. His tenure in MLS will be remembered for his side’s lack of inspiration and his inability to adapt.

De Boer was appointed as Atlanta United manager December 23, 2018.