50 Facts About Atlanta United FC

Atlanta United FC: A Rising Star in MLS

Atlanta United FC has quickly become a standout team in Major League Soccer (MLS) since its founding. Known for its passionate fan base and impressive performances, the team has made a significant impact both on and off the field. Here are some fascinating facts about Atlanta United FC that highlight its journey and achievements.

1. Founding and Expansion: Established in 2014, Atlanta United FC joined MLS as an expansion team in 2017, becoming the league's twenty-second team.

2. Ownership: Arthur Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons, owns the club.

3. Home Stadium: The team plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, sharing it with the Atlanta Falcons.

4. Reserve Team: Atlanta United 2, the club's reserve team, competes in MLS Next Pro.

5. First Game: Their first regular-season game took place on March 5, 2017, at Bobby Dodd Stadium, drawing 55,297 fans.

6. First Goal: Yamil Asad scored the team's inaugural goal in a 2–1 loss to New York Red Bulls.

7. First Win: A week later, they secured their first victory with a 6–1 win against Minnesota United FC.

8. First Home Win: The first home win came with a 4–0 triumph over Chicago Fire at a sold-out Bobby Dodd Stadium.

9. Attendance Records: After moving to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, they led the league in attendance, averaging over 48,000 fans per match.

Achievements and Milestones

Atlanta United FC has not only captured the hearts of fans but also achieved remarkable success in a short time. Here are some key milestones that showcase their journey.

10. Playoff Berth: In their debut season, they clinched a playoff spot, becoming the third MLS expansion team to do so.

11. First Playoff Appearance: The team made its playoff debut under head coach Gerardo Martino.

12. MLS Cup 2018: In their second season, they won the MLS Cup by defeating Portland Timbers 2-0.

13. Supporters' Shield: Finished second in the Eastern Conference and won the Supporters' Shield in 2018.

14. CONCACAF Champions League: Their MLS Cup win qualified them for the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League.

15. Josef Martínez MVP: Josef Martínez was named league MVP in 2018, with Martino earning Coach of the Year honors.

16. Gerardo Martino's Tenure: Martino led the team to its first playoff and championship before leaving in 2019.

17. Gonzalo Pineda's Appointment: On August 12, 2021, Gonzalo Pineda became the fourth permanent head coach.

18. 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs: They reached the playoffs but were eliminated by New York City FC.

19. 2022 Season: Finished 11th in the Eastern Conference, missing the playoffs.

20. U.S. Open Cup Participation: As defending champions, they were knocked out in the Round of 32 by Nashville SC.

Fan Culture and Community Engagement

Atlanta United FC's fan culture is vibrant and deeply rooted in the city's identity. The team has fostered a strong connection with its supporters and the community.

21. Josef Martínez Departure: After six seasons, Josef Martínez left the club at the end of the 2022 season.

22. Logo Evolution: The logo reflects Atlanta's history and culture, emphasizing unity and globalization.

23. Logo Elements: The circle, stripes, "A," and "FC" symbolize unity, character, strength, and community.

24. Fan Culture: Supporter groups like Footie Mob, with 770 members, are known for creative chants and scarves.

25. Hip-Hop Influence: The group's name pays homage to Atlanta's hip-hop history, with chants inspired by local artists.

26. Local Anthems: Chants riff on songs by OutKast, Ghost Town DJs, and Childish Gambino.

27. Community Involvement: MARTA cars and Bud Light billboards feature Atlanta United branding.

28. Player Feedback: Michael Parkhurst praised the indescribable energy of the Atlanta crowd.

29. Darren Eales' Vision: Team president Darren Eales aims to win the CONCACAF Champions League and focus on young talent.

30. Tifos and Fan Engagement: Known for elaborate tifos, the team set records for season ticket sales and attendance.

On-Field Success and Future Goals

Atlanta United FC has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence on the field. The team's achievements and future aspirations highlight their dedication to success.

31. Salaries and Trades: Received $450,000 in allocation money after trading Archie Eversole.

32. Player Contracts: Young players often face the choice between professional soccer and college.

33. Golden Boot Award: Josef Martínez holds the Golden Boot award with 31 goals in a season.

34. CONCACAF Champions League Qualification: Qualified for the 2019 tournament, marking a milestone.

35. Campeones Cup Victory: Won the 2019 Campeones Cup by defeating Club América 3-2.

36. eMLS Cup Victory: Claimed the 2022 eMLS Cup with a 5-3 aggregate win over D.C. United’s KingCJ0.

37. Team President Darren Eales’ Background: Eales, the first employee and president, cultivated a fan base through community engagement.

38. Team Culture: The inclusive fan base reflects Atlanta's modern international city ethos.

39. Vision Statement: "Unite & Conquer" represents their commitment to unity and excellence.

40. Atlanta as a Soccer City: The team's success has tapped into the city's cultural diversity.

41. Local Cultural Influence: Supporters integrate local hip-hop culture into chants and scarves.

42. Fan Engagement Strategies: Early tailgates turned into large-scale events, showcasing fan enthusiasm.

43. Player Feedback on Fans: Michael Parkhurst praised the energy of the Atlanta crowd.

44. Community Impact: MARTA cars feature Atlanta United wraps, promoting integration into public transportation.

45. Bud Light Billboards: Billboards featuring Atlanta United enhance visibility across the city.

46. Local Business Support: Convenience store clerks wear Atlanta United merchandise, showing broad appeal.

47. Player Contracts and Development: Focus on developing young talent, offering contracts to players as young as 16.

48. Salaries and Trades: Received allocation money for trading players, such as $450,000 for Archie Eversole.

49. CONCACAF Champions League Participation: Joined three other MLS teams in qualifying for the tournament.

50. Golden Spike Ceremony: Arthur Blank participates in the ceremony, symbolizing commitment to excellence and community engagement.

Atlanta United FC: A Symbol of Unity and Excellence

Atlanta United FC has quickly become a standout in Major League Soccer, capturing the hearts of fans and making a significant impact both on and off the field. Founded in 2014, this team has achieved remarkable success, including winning the MLS Cup in 2018 and setting attendance records. Their commitment to developing young talent, engaging with the community, and embracing Atlanta's rich culture has set them apart. The team's ethos, "Unite & Conquer," reflects their dedication to unity and excellence. With a passionate fan base and a focus on innovation, Atlanta United continues to be a driving force in American soccer. As they look to the future, the club remains committed to maintaining its status as a powerhouse in the league and a symbol of pride for the city of Atlanta. Their journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.