The yet unnamed MLS Atlanta club now has a technical director, as the club has hired former USMNT captain Carlos Bocanegra.
It’s a good move for the young club, which gains a respected and connected man. The 35-year-old defender has played admirably in Scotland, England, France and Spain in addition to Major League Soccer stints with Chicago Fire and Chivas USA.
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Bocanegra will work with MLS Atlanta president Darren Eales, who has worked with Premier League clubs West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham Hotspur.
From MLSAtlanta2017.com:In his role as technical director, Bocanegra, together with Eales, will oversee day-to-day non-coaching soccer operations of the first team, including development and implementation of a worldwide scouting network and oversight of player wellness and rehabilitation. In addition, he will oversee youth academy programs and serve as a liaison with MLS league officials on player regulations and other league rules.
“I feel very fortunate to have played the game of soccer professionally for so many years and am excited to be part of something special here in Atlanta,” said Bocanegra. “I’ve always wanted to stay involved with soccer at the top level, and to have that opportunity with MLS Atlanta is a great way to start this next chapter. I’m a competitor and I look forward to bringing that drive and passion into everything I do here in Atlanta.”The 110-times capped defender scored 14 goals for the Yanks. The fighting Bocas begin play in 2017.
I’m thrilled to be a part of @MLSAtlanta2017 . Looking forward to creating something special that the fans can be proud of. #MLSAtlanta
— Carlos Bocanegra (@BocaBoca3) March 2, 2015Follow @NicholasMendola