Club Name: Atlanta United FC
Nickname: The Five Stripes
Founded: 2014 (began playing in 2017)
Country: United States
League: Major League Soccer (MLS)
Home Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Team Colors: Red, Black, and Gold

Atlanta United FC, is one of the most successful and popular football clubs in the United States. Based in Atlanta, the club competes in Major League Soccer and quickly became one of the league’s strongest teams after joining the competition in 2017.

The nickname “The Five Stripes” comes from the five red and black stripes featured on the club’s crest and home jersey. Since its debut season, Atlanta United has attracted massive fan support and frequently records some of the highest attendance numbers in MLS history.

Ownership & Management

Owner: Arthur Blank
League: Major League Soccer
Sporting Director: Club-appointed
Head Coach: Appointed by club management
Team Captain: Selected from senior squad

Arthur Blank, a co-founder of The Home Depot, established the club as part of MLS expansion. Under his leadership, Atlanta United invested heavily in infrastructure, player recruitment, and youth development.

Because of this strong financial backing and professional management structure, the club quickly became competitive at the highest level of American soccer.

Youth Development & Academy

Atlanta United operates one of the most advanced youth academies in MLS. The club focuses on identifying young talent from across the United States and developing them into professional players.

Key development programs include:

• Atlanta United Academy teams (U-15, U-17, U-19)
• Player development partnerships with local clubs
• Professional pathway through Atlanta United 2

Through these programs, the club ensures that young players receive high-quality training and opportunities to progress into the first team.

Major Rivals

Rival Club	Rivalry Context
Orlando City SC	Known as the “Southern Rivalry”
New York City FC	Competitive MLS playoff clashes
Nashville SC	Regional rivalry in the southeast

Matches against Orlando City are particularly intense and attract massive fan attention across the MLS community.

Playing Style & Identity

Atlanta United is widely recognized for its attacking and entertaining style of play. The club often focuses on aggressive offense and high-tempo football.

Key characteristics of their playing style include:

• Fast attacking transitions
• Creative midfield play
• High pressing tactics
• Strong wing play

Because of these tactical strengths, Atlanta United frequently ranks among the highest-scoring teams in the league.

Major Honours

Competition	Achievement
Major League Soccer	MLS Cup Champions (2018)
U.S. Open Cup	Champions (2019)
Campeones Cup	Winners (2019)

Winning the MLS Cup in only their second season remains one of the most impressive achievements in league history.

Notable Players

Several star players have played key roles in Atlanta United’s success.

Player	Position
Josef Martínez	Forward
Miguel Almirón	Attacking Midfielder
Thiago Almada	Midfielder
Brad Guzan	Goalkeeper

These players helped the club achieve domestic success and gain international recognition.

Global Impact

Although Atlanta United is a relatively young club, it has already made a major impact on American soccer. The team regularly attracts large crowds at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and plays a significant role in growing football culture in the southeastern United States.

With strong management, passionate supporters, and continued investment in player development, Atlanta United aims to remain one of the leading clubs in Major League Soccer for many years to come.