Atlanta United fire Bocanegra

Carlos Bocanegra has been fired as the vice-president and technical director of Atlanta United, the club announced Wednesday.

Bocanegra has been under pressure for what has been perceived as poor recruitment since he assumed sole responsibility for player acquisition following Darren Eales’ decision to join EPL side Newcastle United in 2022.

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The former USMNT captain has held the role of technical director since 2015, two years before Atlanta joined Major League Soccer, and was a key part of the front office that helped the franchise to their MLS Cup win in 2018.

He will be replaced by president and CEO Garth Lagerwey on an interim basis for the remainder of the 2024 season.

Lagerwey said: “We are deeply appreciative of Carlos’s dedication and success over the last nine years with Atlanta United. However, I believe it’s time for our club to move in a new direction.

“While we will continue to fight for a playoff spot down the final stretch of the season, this gives us a clean slate and a runway to properly assess all vacancies in our sporting operation ahead of what will be an extremely important offseason for our club.”

Atlanta United Part Ways with VP, Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) September 4, 2024

What has Arthur Blank had to say?

Atlanta have lost five of their last 10 matches under interim head coach Rob Valentino to slip to ninth in the Eastern Conference.

“I want to personally thank Carlos for his many contributions to the success of Atlanta United on and off the pitch,” team owner Arthur Blank said. 

“He was here from the beginning and deserves much credit for our MLS Championship; other trophies we’ve won over the last nine years; and the way our team captured the heart of this city even before we launched in 2017.

“Several dynamic players signed by Carlos have been foundational to our success, including some who have moved on to opportunities in elite leagues and clubs across the world.

“I will always have great affection for Carlos and his beautiful family, and deep gratitude for the passion and dedication he brought to our club over the years. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”