Gerardo "Tata" Martino: Becoming A Defining Figure in Major League Soccer

Gerardo "Tata" Martino: Becoming A Defining Figure in Major League Soccer

Gerardo "Tata" Martino: Becoming A Defining Figure in Major League Soccer

In the narrative of modern North American soccer, few names carry as much weight as Gerardo "Tata" Martino. From his historic launch of Atlanta United to orchestrating the record-breaking "Messi era" in South Florida, Martino has become a defining figure in Major League Soccer. The legendary Argentine coach has come full circle, returning to the city where he first became an icon to lead a new project aimed at restoring a fallen giant to its former glory.

Where is Gerardo Martino now?

As of early 2026, Gerardo Martino is the head coach of Atlanta United.

On November 6, 2025, the club officially announced "the return of the King," signing Martino to a two-year contract that runs through the 2027 MLS season. He officially began his second stint in Atlanta on January 1, 2026, taking over from Ronny Deila. He is supported by a technical staff that includes his son, Gerardo Martino Jr., as an assistant coach.

Why did Tata leave Inter Miami?

Despite a historic 2024 season, Martino shocked the league by resigning from Inter Miami in November 2024.

  • The Reason: Martino cited "personal reasons" for his departure. He later clarified in interviews that he needed to be back in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, to attend to a private family matter that required his full attention for the first half of 2025.

  • The Legacy: He left Miami as a hero, having secured the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters' Shield, while setting the MLS all-time regular-season points record (74).

Gerardo Martino: Coaching Career & Teams Managed

Martino's resume is one of the most prestigious in world football, spanning over 25 years and multiple continents.

TeamTenureKey Achievement
Atlanta United2026 – PresentCurrent Role
Inter Miami CF2023 – 2024Supporters' Shield, Leagues Cup
Mexico National Team2019 – 20222019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Winner
Atlanta United2017 – 20182018 MLS Cup Champions
Argentina National Team2014 – 2016Two Copa América Finals; FIFA #1 Rank
FC Barcelona2013 – 2014Spanish Super Cup Winner
Newell's Old Boys2011 – 2013Argentine Primera División Winner
Paraguay National Team2007 – 2011World Cup Quarter-finals (2010)

Tata Martino at Barcelona: The Record

Martino's single season at FC Barcelona (2013–14) is often remembered as bittersweet, as the team missed out on the La Liga title on the final day of the season. However, his statistical record was elite:

  • Record: 40 wins, 11 draws, 8 losses in 59 games.

  • Win Percentage: 67.8%

  • Goals: The team scored 148 goals and conceded only 48.

  • Trophy: He won the 2013 Spanish Super Cup, but finished as runner-up in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Is Gerardo Martino a good coach?

The consensus among experts and players is a resounding yes. Martino is praised for his tactical flexibility—usually favoring an attacking 4-3-3—and his ability to manage superstar personalities like Lionel Messi.

  • The "Martino Standard": He currently holds the highest winning percentage in MLS regular-season history (for coaches with 50+ games).

  • Player Development: He is credited with the rapid rise of stars like Miguel Almirón in Atlanta and nurturing young talents like Diego Gómez in Miami.

Tata Martino at Atlanta United: The First Stint (2017–2018)

To understand why his return in 2026 is so significant, one must look at his original "Five Stripes" record:

  • Success: Won the MLS Cup in only the club's second year (2018).

  • Individual Honor: Named 2018 MLS Coach of the Year.

  • Offensive Power: His teams scored 140 goals across two seasons, a league-best at the time.

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