Scene setters of the locker room before the match against Orlando City SC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Saturday August 29, 2020. This is part of the first phase of the continuation of MLS’ 25th season. While the club works to refine the health and safety protocols for Atlanta United events in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the three home matches of this first phase will be played with no fans in attendance. (Photo by Jacob Gonzalez/Atlanta United)

Atlanta United transfers “Pity” Martínez to Al-Nassr FC

On Monday Atlanta United announced the transfer of midfielder Gonzalo “Pity” to Al-Nassr FC of the Saudi Pro League for an undisclosed transfer fee. The transaction opens both a Designated Player spot and an international spot on the club’s 2020 roster. Atlanta United now has the two highest initial outgoing transfer fees in MLS history.

 

“We want to thank Pity for his contributions to our club for the past two years,” said Atlanta United Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra. “He will forever be a part of Atlanta United’s history after playing an integral part in our 2019 season in which we lifted two trophies. We’ll look to be diligent in our efforts to fill that roster spot during this window.”

 

Martínez joined the club on Jan. 24, 2019 from Club Atlético River Plate of the Argentine Superleague. In his first full season with the club, Martínez scored five goals and recorded nine assists in league play and was named a 2019 MLS All-Star. He started all five matches in Atlanta’s run to the 2019 U.S. Open Cup title and scored two goals, including the game-winner in the final against Minnesota United as Atlanta United won 2-1. Martinez also started in Atlanta’s 3-2 win over Club América in the 2019 Campeones Cup, making Atlanta the first MLS club to win the trophy.