Atlanta United have fired head coach Gabriel Heinze after a disappointing start to the MLS season.
Heinze was appointed just seven months ago, following spells with Argentinos Juniors and Velez Sarsfield in Argentina. Atlanta won just two of its 13 MLS games during its time. This record leaves them 10th in the Eastern Conference, four points behind the playoffs after playing one game more than the seventh-placed New York City.
According to a club statement, Heinze was due to: “A variety of issues related to the team’s daily management.”
President Darren Eales added: “This was certainly not a decision we wanted to make at this point in our season, but it was the right thing for the club. Gabi is a talented coach and is undeniably passionate about his craft and the sport of football. We are grateful to him for his service; and wish him all the best in the future. ”
Heinze’s leading time was full of controversy outside the field. His relationship with star man Josef Martinez was strained with the MLS MVP 2018 was asked to train from the rest of the squad in recent weeks.
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Martinez is not the only Atlanta player who has a problem with Heinze. Before their opening game of the MLS season, a 0-0 draw with Orlando City, the squad Heinze reported to the MLS Players Association for excessive training hours. According to Doug Roberson, the Argentine continued to work hard on his players after this and planned two sessions a day during the recent international break.
Assistant coach Rob Valentino will take over from Heinze temporarily. Atlanta’s front office will hope to get their next meeting right as their fortunes have dropped significantly since the departure of MLS-winning boss Tata Martino.
