Atlanta United President Discusses Club’s Ambitions for 2024 MLS Season
Atlanta United president Garth Lagerway recently sat down with GOAL to discuss the club’s ambitious plans for the upcoming 2024 MLS season. After a tumultuous year that saw Atlanta sell their top players, Lagerway is confident that the team is poised to make a strong comeback and establish themselves as one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference.
From Underdogs to Contenders
Following a surprising playoff upset against Inter Miami in the previous season, Lagerway emphasized the club’s determination to move beyond being seen as underdogs. He expressed his belief that Atlanta should be expected to win in the playoffs and be favored to do so, marking a shift in the team’s mindset and goals.
Despite the challenges of losing key players last summer, Atlanta managed to stay competitive and even triumphed over Lionel Messi’s Miami in the playoffs. This resilience indicated to Lagerway that there was a solid foundation to build upon for the future.
Strategic Reinvestment
To bolster the team’s roster, Atlanta focused on strategic reinvestment during the offseason. The club targeted key positions such as a striker and additional attacking players, securing the signings of Aleksey Miranchuk, Emmanuel Latte Lath, and Miguel Almiron to strengthen their squad.
Lagerway highlighted the meticulous planning behind these acquisitions, revealing that Atlanta had been tracking some players for up to a year before making moves. While the signings of Almiron and Latte Lath represented significant financial investments, Lagerway emphasized the club’s commitment to securing top talent to elevate their performance.
A New Era for Atlanta United
With a new sporting director in Chris Henderson and experienced head coach Ronny Deila at the helm, Atlanta United is poised for a fresh start in the 2024 MLS season. The additions of Almiron and Latte Lath, along with the existing talent within the team, have positioned Atlanta as serious contenders for the MLS title.
Despite the financial implications of these high-profile signings, Lagerway expressed confidence in Atlanta’s ability to compete at the highest level and potentially secure a championship victory. The club’s owner’s encouragement of reinvestment and a strategic approach to player recruitment have set the stage for a promising season ahead.
Looking Ahead
As Atlanta United prepares for the upcoming MLS season, Lagerway remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. With a strong roster, experienced coaching staff, and a renewed sense of purpose, Atlanta is ready to make their mark in the Eastern Conference and compete for the ultimate prize in Major League Soccer.
Stay tuned for more updates on Atlanta United’s journey in the 2024 MLS season as they strive to achieve their goals and solidify their position as one of the league’s top teams.
Atlanta United’s Long-Term Vision
Looking beyond the 2024 MLS season, Lagerway shared insights into Atlanta United’s long-term vision. The club is not only focused on immediate success but also on building a sustainable foundation for continued excellence in the years to come. Lagerway emphasized the importance of developing young talent through the academy system and fostering a culture of growth and development within the organization.
Atlanta United’s commitment to youth development has already borne fruit, with several academy graduates making significant contributions to the first team. Lagerway highlighted the success stories of players like George Campbell and Tyler Wolff, who have seamlessly transitioned from the academy to the professional ranks. This emphasis on homegrown talent not only strengthens the team but also fosters a sense of identity and connection with the local community.
Community Engagement and Fan Support
In addition to on-field success, Atlanta United places a strong emphasis on community engagement and fan support. Lagerway discussed the club’s initiatives to give back to the community through various outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations. These efforts not only make a positive impact but also help strengthen the bond between the club and its supporters.
Furthermore, Lagerway acknowledged the crucial role that fans play in Atlanta United’s success. The passionate support from the fanbase creates a vibrant atmosphere at matches, motivating the players to perform at their best. Lagerway expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the fans and highlighted the club’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for supporters both on and off the field.
Global Partnerships and Expansion
As Atlanta United continues to grow and establish itself as a powerhouse in MLS, Lagerway discussed the importance of global partnerships and expanding the club’s reach beyond the United States. By forging strategic alliances with international clubs and organizations, Atlanta United aims to broaden its fan base and attract top talent from around the world.
Lagerway hinted at potential collaborations with European giants and South American clubs to exchange knowledge, resources, and talent. These partnerships not only enhance Atlanta United’s reputation on the global stage but also provide opportunities for players to gain exposure to different styles of play and competition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Atlanta United’s ambitions for the 2024 MLS season are not just limited to on-field success but extend to building a sustainable and successful club for the future. With a strong focus on strategic recruitment, youth development, community engagement, and global partnerships, Atlanta United is poised to continue its rise as a dominant force in Major League Soccer.
As the new season approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting journey filled with promise, potential, and the pursuit of excellence. Atlanta United’s commitment to innovation, growth, and success sets the stage for a thrilling and transformative chapter in the club’s history.