Gerardo "Tata" Martino is leading the race to become Atlanta United's first head coach ahead of their inaugural MLS season, but former Seattle Sounders head coach Sigi Schmid is also being linked to the job.
Big Names In the Mix
Martino resigned as Argentina manager this summer after a defeat in the Copa America Centenario final and was recently linked heavily to the Atlanta job as the new MLS franchise prepares to kick off their first season in January. Atlanta has already made a handful of signings but are yet to hire the franchise's first ever head coach but that could come sooner rather than later.
Telemundo originally reported that Martino was in talks with Atlanta for the position and since leaving Argentina's national team, the 53-year old has been out of work.
Martino also managed Barcelona for one season and took Paraguay to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup. The former-Barcelona manager has an impressive resume and plenty of experience but kicking off a franchise's inaugural season would be a new challenge for the Argentine.
ESPN reported today that while Martino is in talks to get the job, Schmid is in the mix and even has a connection to Atlanta's front office.
Schmid Would Bring MLS Experience
Schmid was fired by Seattle back in July and his candidacy comes as no surprise as Atlanta could opt for his Major League Soccer experience. The hire seems unlikely but it's another big name to go alongside Martino's in the running for the job.
The 63-year old has won five MLS trophies, including two MLS Cups. His most recent triumph came with Seattle as they won the 2014 MLS Supporters' Shield.
No matter what way Atlanta go, they have two experienced managers high on their list and both will bring something different to Major League Soccer's newest team.