Atlanta United Adds Carl Robinson as Assistant Coach

You won’t believe who Atlanta United just added to their coaching staff – longtime MLS veteran Carl Robinson. The former midfielder will join interim head coach Rob Valentino as an assistant, bringing a wealth of experience from both his playing and coaching days. Robinson has been around the block in MLS, leading Vancouver Whitecaps for several seasons and working under Wayne Rooney at D.C. United. His time managing in Australia and England rounds out his resume. Not only does Robinson know MLS inside and out from his days on the pitch, but he has established himself as a sharp soccer mind during his decade as a coach. This hire shows that Atlanta United is getting serious about turning things around and making a playoff push in the second half of the season. With Robinson’s help, they just might pull it off.

Carl Robinson’s Extensive Coaching Background

Carl Robinson brings over a decade of coaching experience to Atlanta United. After retiring as a player in 2011, Robinson began coaching with Vancouver Whitecaps in 2012, working his way up to head coach. During his four seasons in charge, he led the team to three playoff appearances and their first Canadian Cup title.

Following his time in Vancouver, Robinson gained international experience, coaching in Australia’s top division. He helped turn around the Newcastle Jets before joining Western Sydney Wanderers. His success down under led to an assistant role with D.C. United under Wayne Rooney. The duo then moved to Birmingham City in England’s second tier.

In between club jobs, Robinson has also assisted the Wales national team, the country he represented 52 times as a player. His experiences at different levels and locations provide a wealth of knowledge that will benefit Atlanta United.

Robinson is known for giving young players an opportunity and helping them reach their potential. At each of his coaching stops, he has integrated academy players into the first team. Atlanta United has one of MLS’s top academies, so Robinson’s track record of developing youth should fit well with the club’s ethos.

Though Robinson has mostly worked as a head coach, he has experience as an assistant and will provide support for interim coach Rob Valentino. Robinson’s attacking style of play and ability to get the most out of his players should help Atlanta United as they look to turn around a difficult start to the season. With the new addition of Carl Robinson, the future looks bright for Atlanta United.

The club and its fans will be eager to see what kind of influence Robinson can have as he joins interim coach Rob Valentino’s staff. His first test comes this Saturday at home against the Houston Dynamo.