Atlanta United 2020 Report Cards: Pity Martinez

2020 was supposed to be the year Pity Martinez flourished in the MLS, and after a hot start in the CONCACAF Champions League against Motagua, it looked good for him. The pandemic, though, had other plans and suspended soccer until July, after which he didn’t register a single goal or assist in the MLS is Back tournament.

Position: RW

Games Played: 10

Goals: 4

Assists: 2

What went right this season?

Like I said before, Pity had a great start to the season with his performances in the CONCACAF Champions League, but when the MLS season began, he began to fizzle out of form — a worrying sight. It was assumed that he took on more responsibility with Josef’s injury, but again, the form just wasn’t there. But if we’re looking at positives, we can remember the sensational double he scored against Nahsville SC in Stephen Glass’s first match in charge, which included a game-sealing screamer from the edge of the box.

But agree or not, the best thing and right thing to happen to Pity Martinez was a move away from Atlanta. All we can do is wish him the best!

What does he need to improve on?

Pity lacked in Atlanta what he did well in River Plate. In Spanish, we call it “protagonismo.” It’s that beacon and that reference that the entire team needs, and what the opposition fears. Basically, a leader and focal point for the attack. Pity often lacked that influence, and because of it, both he and the team suffered. You can blame tactics and managers, but he just didn’t have that attitude at the end of the day.

What role will he play in 2021?

Somehere in the attack at Al-Nassr.

Overall Grade: D-

Four goals and two assists in ten games would save him from a total F, even if four of those goals were against only two teams (Motagua & Nashville).