Atlanta United parts ways with technical director Carlos Bocanegra

Carlos Bocanegra was dismissed from his role as technical director of Atlanta United during a challenging season, with the team currently in ninth place in the Eastern Conference. Despite his contributions to the club's early success, including winning the MLS Cup in 2018, the team has struggled to replicate that level of performance in recent years. Bocanegra's departure comes with seven games remaining in the season, as the club aims to reassess its sporting operations ahead of a crucial offseason. Bocanegra joined Atlanta United in 2015, playing a pivotal role in building a competitive roster that included standout players like Josef Martinez and Miguel Almiron. Under his leadership, the team not only achieved playoff success but also set attendance records at their home stadium. However, the excitement surrounding the club has waned, leading to a series of coaching changes and disappointing playoff performances in recent seasons. The club's president and CEO, Garth Lagerwey, will take over Bocanegra's responsibilities on an interim basis, signaling a potential overhaul of the team's structure. This decision reflects a broader trend of declining performance, as Atlanta has not finished higher than fifth in the Eastern Conference since 2019 and has missed the playoffs in two of the last four seasons. Owner Arthur Blank expressed gratitude for Bocanegra's dedication and contributions, acknowledging the emotional connection he has with the club. As Atlanta United prepares for a significant transition, the focus will be on revitalizing the team and restoring its competitive edge in Major League Soccer.