FORMER AJAX, INTER and Crystal Palace manager Frank de Boer has been appointed as the new head coach of Atlanta United, the MLS Cup champions have confirmed.
The Dutchman has signed a ‘multi-year contract’ with the team and will succeed Gerardo Martino.
De Boer won four successive Eredivisie titles during his time in charge of Ajax, but struggled to replicate his success during a disastrous three-month spell at Inter in 2016.
He took charge of Palace for the 2017-18 campaign, but was sacked when the Eagles lost their first four Premier League games.
New chapter. Same mission.#ATLUTD name @FdeBoerOfficial as 2nd head coach in club history
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) December 23, 2018
📝 https://t.co/H2VX85UytQ pic.twitter.com/AT7rLstHHf
However, he has now been handed a chance to revive his career in the United States, and Atlanta president Darren Eales is delighted to have secured De Boer’s signature.
“Frank de Boer has a distinguished background, both as manager and player, and we’re ecstatic to welcome him to our club,” Eales told Atlanta’s official website.
“When we began our search, we were determined to find someone who fit all of our criteria. In addition to meeting our club’s core values, Frank’s philosophical views for how to play unequivocally aligns with ours.
“He also has a proven track record of developing youth players, with many of them going on to star for top European teams.”
Subscribe to our new podcast, Heineken Rugby Weekly on The42, here:
United have gone for high profile,statistically strong players that just don’t fit the club.Saw Josh King linked today,not a massive name but could certainly do well and given he came through their academy and has PL experience could be a good fit.
@Nic Antonio: came they the United youth set up when ole was there too
I like Neville but he is talking some amount of arse recently…
@The Irish Pain: He’s speaking nothing but sense..? Where’s your confusion?
Don’t think they need a lot in midfield or up front. 2 decent defenders would be great. But it’s very difficult to sign in January. Nice to look forward to games now.
@irishoverseas: even one strong defender would do. Think keep the players for the remainder of the season, blood some of the younger midfield/forward players this year and then let who ever comes in as manager in the summer the basis of a strong squad to at least start the rebuilding process.