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Atlanta United confirms appointment of Gerardo Martino as 1st manager

Winslow Townson / USA TODAY Sports

MLS expansion side Atlanta United has its first-ever manager, the club announcing Tuesday that former Barcelona and Argentina bench boss Gerardo 'Tata' Martino will lead the team into its maiden campaign in 2017.

"We are delighted that a manager of Gerardo's caliber and pedigree will be leading our team into our inaugural season," club president Darren Eales said. "His deep experience and success at both the club and international levels speak for itself, and his vision and approach aligns very well with our club philosophy.

"We're confident in his ability to help build a winning culture both on and off the pitch."

Martino, 53, hasn't been on the touchline since resigning as Argentina boss following the 2016 Copa America Centenario this summer.

He left the Albiceleste amid tumultuous circumstances; FIFA needed to step in and put the Argentine FA under administration after president Luis Segura resigned in ignominy when charged with fraudulent administration.

With that nightmarish situation behind him, Martino is looking forward to his new adventure in Major League Soccer.

"I'm very happy to join Atlanta United as the first head coach in club history," Martino said. "This is an exciting time for MLS and I'm looking forward to the challenge of leading a team in an evolving league.

"Atlanta United is a first-rate organization, and I'm very eager to get working and build one of the top clubs in MLS."

Martino also brings with him club-level experience from his time at the Camp Nou, as he oversaw a turbulent, trophy-less campaign with Barcelona in 2013-14.

He will be officially presented by Atlanta United during a news conference on Wednesday.

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