As you follow the latest developments in Major League Soccer, you may be surprised to learn of a significant change within one of the league’s most prominent clubs. Atlanta United has made a bold move by parting ways with Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra, effective immediately. This decision marks the end of Bocanegra’s nine-year tenure with the club, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping Atlanta United’s roster and overall success. In a swift transition, President and CEO Garth Lagerwey will step in to assume Bocanegra’s responsibilities on an interim basis for the remainder of the 2024 season. This unexpected shift in leadership promises to have far-reaching implications for the club’s future direction and strategy.
In a statement Owner and Chairman, Arthur M. Blank said, “I want to personally thank Carlos for his many contributions to the success of Atlanta United on and off the pitch. He was here from the beginning and deserves much credit for our MLS Championship; other trophies we’ve won over the last nine years; and the way our team captured the heart of this city even before we launched in 2017. Several dynamic players signed by Carlos have been foundational to our success, including some who have moved on to opportunities in elite leagues and clubs across the world. I will always have great affection for Carlos and his beautiful family, and deep gratitude for the passion and dedication he brought to our club over the years. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
As Atlanta United embarks on this new chapter, you can expect significant changes in the club’s sporting operations. The departure of Carlos Bocanegra marks the end of an era, but also presents an opportunity for fresh perspectives and strategies. Under Garth Lagerwey’s interim leadership, the club will carefully evaluate its current position and future goals. The search for a new Technical Director and head coach will be crucial in shaping Atlanta United’s direction. “We are deeply appreciative of Carlos’s dedication and success over the last nine years with Atlanta United. However, I believe it’s time for our club to move in a new direction,” Lagerwey said. “While we will continue to fight for a playoff spot down the final stretch of the season, this gives us a clean slate and a runway to properly assess all vacancies in our sporting operation ahead of what will be an extremely important offseason for our club.”
Atlanta United (8-12-7, 31 points) returns to action Saturday, September 14 when it hosts Nashville SC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.