ATLANTA — While the future currently is now for Atlanta United, changes are already under way for the Five Strips, even after capturing the MLS Cup Saturday night, 2-0 over the Portland Timbers.
Gone will be manager Gerardo Martino, who in just two brief but remarkable seasons guided them to a 37-16-16 record and a title. Martino's .650 winning percentage is the best in MLS history.
Miguel Almiron, who scored the back-breaker against the Timbers in the second half, is rumored to be leaving for bigger pastures (and more green) in the offseason. Captain Michael Parkhurst is 34 and defensive backbone Jeff Larentowicz is 35 and some have speculated both would hang up their cleats if they won a title.
“This club had a plan from the beginning in 2016 and we have executed it just the way we wanted,” Martino said in a post-match interview after capturing the Cup. “That’s what makes this so special. My intention before the match was already known. This is the way I was hoping to end it.”
Parkhurst, however, when asked, sounded as if he has every intention of coming back for the 2019 season.
“I hope so,” he said. “I guess we’ll find out soon enough.”
But Parkhurst added that the biggest changes he sees may be league-wide. And he credits the success in Atlanta to having a lot to do with it.
“The MLS is getting better and better. I truly believe that,” he stated. “Teams are devoting more money for better players. New stadiums are being built.
“I think Arthur and his vision has been nice for us and good for the league. He put us on the same level of attention as the football team (Atlanta Falcons). I see things only getting better.”
United keeper Brad Guzan, who made three huge saves to help the Five Strips preserve their title-winning match, however, said things can wait.
“We’ll worry about whatever changes are made or need to be made next year. Right now, we just want to get out of here and celebrate as a team.”
