Atlanta United to open 2019 home slate against FC Cincinnati

Turns out, Atlanta United won’t need to wait long to face off against MLS’ newest club and one of its original players.

MLS announced the home openers for all 24 clubs on Thursday and as previously reported by the Washington Post’s Steven Goff, Atlanta will open its season on the road for the second straight season as it travels to take on Wayne Rooney and D.C. United on Sunday, March 3 at 6 p.m. No broadcast information has been announced, but expect that to be a nationally televised match.

A week later at 5 p.m., Atlanta United will open its home schedule for the first time as MLS champions as expansion side FC Cincinnati visits Mercedes-Benz Stadium in what should be another national TV game. Of course, Cincinnati acquired Greg Garza in a trade with Atlanta, and the left back should receive a nice reception from the Atlanta fans in his return to the Benz.

With a new manager, a potential new big-ticket signing and an MLS Cup in its trophy case, Atlanta United will have a big target on its back in 2019. We’ll find out the remainder of their path to a second straight championship next month when the entire league schedule is released.