Gonzalo Pineda will remain as Atlanta United head coach for the 2023 season.
Pineda took over as Gabriel Heinze’s permanent successor in August 2021 and helped guide the Five Stripes back into the MLS Cup Playoffs after missing out for the first time a year prior.
This season, however, has been far tougher for Pineda, who has had to deal with a chronic number of injuries to key players, including United States internationals Brad Guzan and Miles Robinson.
Pineda has been unable to inspire any consistency in results for Atlanta United. The 2018 MLS Cup champions currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference, six points adrift of the Playoffs and without back-to-back wins at all in 2022.
What’s more, Pineda has endured a public falling out with star striker Josef Martinez, with the club suspending the Venezeula international due to an altercation following Sunday’s 2-1 loss at the Portland Timbers.
However, Pineda’s current contract is due to run through the 2024 season and the former Seattle Sounders midfielder still has the faith of the club’s front office – first reported by WSB-Ch.2 Atlanta.
“Gonzalo Pineda will be coaching Atlanta United in 2023,” Steve Cannon, CEO of Arthur M. Blank Sports and Entertainment, revealed.
Cannon added: “While we continue to battle for a playoff spot this year, he will have our full confidence and the opportunity to manage a full and healthy roster next year.”
Atlanta United host Toronto FC on Saturday.
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Credit: 90min.com
