Can Miguel Almirón and Tata Martino Revive Atlanta United?

The duo's reunion aims to restore the club's former glory after a dismal 2025 season.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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With the 2026 MLS season underway, Atlanta United is hoping that the reunited partnership between coach Tata Martino and star midfielder Miguel Almirón can reverse the team's recent fortunes. After a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw Atlanta finish near the bottom of the standings, Martino's return as head coach brings renewed hope that he can unlock the best from Almirón and lead the club to brighter days.

Why it matters

Almirón and Martino previously enjoyed great success together, winning an MLS Cup in 2017. Their reunion is seen as crucial to rebuilding Atlanta United's identity and competitiveness after a dismal 2025 season that left the team and its fans frustrated.

The details

Martino has expressed a clear intent to help Almirón recapture his best form, while also managing the player's responsibilities both on and off the field. The coach envisions Almirón as a soccer leader who can guide the team's performances. Martino is also introducing a more intense, high-pressing style that emphasizes teamwork and fitness, in contrast to the less engaged atmosphere under the previous coach.

  • The 2026 MLS season is now underway.
  • Atlanta United's 2025 campaign saw the team finish near the bottom of the standings.
  • Tata Martino was recently rehired as Atlanta United's head coach.

The players

Miguel Almirón

A 32-year-old midfielder who is a key player for Atlanta United. He had a mixed 2025 season but is expected to be a central figure in the team's offensive strategy under Martino's guidance.

Tata Martino

The returning head coach of Atlanta United, who previously led the team to an MLS Cup victory in 2017. He is tasked with reviving the club's fortunes after a disappointing 2025 season.

Ronny Deila

The former Atlanta United head coach who was dismissed after the team's poor performance in the 2025 season.

Juan Berrocal

An Atlanta United center back who has commented on Martino's new high-pressing tactical approach.

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What they’re saying

“We have the intention to try to keep finding his best version.”

— Tata Martino, Head Coach (Press Conference)

“This year, he has not only an important commitment to Atlanta but also a very important commitment to the Paraguayan national team, something that he's been searching for for a long time, which is to play in a World Cup.”

— Tata Martino, Head Coach (Press Conference)

“We feel that he can be the leader of the team from a soccer perspective. What we want is to somehow surround him in a way that will take some of the responsibilities off the field away from him, and that he be the leader on the field.”

— Tata Martino, Head Coach (Press Conference)

“Quiero contar contigo”

— Tata Martino (Players' Tribune Interview)

“MLS is very difficult for the defenders, but Tata, he wants to press high. It's more difficult for the defenders, but for the team it is better, I think, because if you get the ball in the opposite field, it's more easy to attack, to score goals, you know? So I think it's better for the team.”

— Juan Berrocal, Center Back (Interview)

What’s next

Atlanta United will open the 2026 MLS season with a visit to FC Cincinnati, signaling the start of this new chapter under Martino and Almirón's leadership.

The takeaway

The reunion of Tata Martino and Miguel Almirón represents a pivotal moment for Atlanta United as they aim to restore the club's identity and competitiveness after a disappointing 2025 season. Martino's high-intensity, high-pressing tactics and his vision for Almirón as a team leader offer hope that the duo can recapture the magic of their previous success and lead Atlanta back to glory.