“Atlanta United today announced it has named Gerardo “Tata” Martino as the club’s head coach and signed the Argentine to a contract through the 2027 MLS season,” Atlanta United announced in an official statement.

This will mark Martino’s second tenure as head coach of Atlanta United, having been the franchise’s inaugural manager. During that time, the Argentine coach directed 68 matches, led the clubs to their first playoff appearance, and captured the MLS Cup in 2018, securing the earliest championship for an expansion team since 1998.

“I want to thank Arthur and Chris for the opportunity to return to the club and a city where we hold wonderful memories and maintain great relationships,” Martino said, via an official report from Atlanta United.

“This is a different project than my first stint with the club, however with great ownership and the collaboration of the players, coaching staff and everyone at the club, our objective will always be to form a winning team that makes our fans feel proud and well-represented every time that they go to Mercedes-Benz Stadium,” he added.

Under Martino’s command, Atlanta United established several records: 124 points, 140 goals, and a +56 goal differential across his two seasons. They also became only the second team in MLS history to surpass 70 goals in consecutive campaigns. His highly successful run with the clubs earned him the Coach of the Year award in 2018.

Martino’s history with Inter Miami

Following a period managing the Mexican National Team, Martino was hired by Inter Miami in 2023 to coach Lionel Messi again, having previously managed the star at Barcelona and with the Argentine National Team.

Martino became the manager who won Inter Miami’s first two titles, when they secured the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, setting the record for the most points in a single MLS campaign with 74 units and scoring 79 goals, the highest figure in the league.

Messi’s brace broke another MLS record, making him the first player in league history to record nine multi-goal matches in a single season. He scored twice in each of these performances, with five of the nine games coming consecutively.

The list of players achieving multiple-goal matches also includes MLS stars such as former LA Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who had eight in 2019, Stern John with Columbus Crew in 1998, and Mamadou Diallo with Tampa Bay in 2000.

Messi scored 26 goals in 27 league appearances while contributing 18 assists, totaling 44 goal involvements—almost double the number of matches played. His dominance at this stage of his career is remarkable, highlighting his focus as he continues to prepare for the World Cup.

Why Messi was able to play with Inter Miami

Messi’s availability against Atlanta had been uncertain after he was named to Argentina’s latest squad. He did not participate in the friendly against Venezuela at Hard Rock Stadium and avoided travel outside Florida after Argentina’s clash with Puerto Rico was moved from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale. This allowed him to link up with his club side.

Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano commented on securing Messi’s release for MLS duty: “Before the match, I talked to Scaloni, and he said he was not going to use him, that he would sit him down. I spoke to Leo to see if he could play. It was his decision, and clearly he saw the opportunity that if he wasn’t going to play against Venezuela, we could use him. Leo, of course, was ready to do it.”

“He is a very special player, an icon, and even though he didn’t train with us last week, we saw what he did. He helped us to win and managed to score. That was important for him,” Mascherano added. Messi’s presence went beyond mere participation, providing a significant impact that boosted the team’s performance against Atlanta.

Messi had been rested by Argentina as Miami prepared for the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs. The forward spent the week training with his national team but returned to play for Inter Miami despite limited time on the pitch with his club teammates.

Ultimately, Messi featured in the match and also contributed an assist, tying him with San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer for the league lead in assists. His impact was immediate and decisive, showing why he is still considered a central figure in MLS.

Messi’s brace against Atlanta pushed his total to 26 goals in MLS, extending his lead in the Golden Boot race. He now sits two goals ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and is favored to defend his Most Valuable Player crown. If successful, Messi would become the first player in league history to win back-to-back MVP awards.

The record Messi broke with his brace against Atlanta

The Barcelona legend set another MLS milestone with his two-goal performance against Atlanta, becoming the first MLS player to record nine multi-goal matches in a single season. Five of those nine performances came consecutively, underscoring Messi’s consistent brilliance.

Messi has now scored 26 goals in 27 league appearances and contributed 18 assists. As the postseason approaches, Miami will look to Messi to deliver more moments of magic, with his latest outing ensuring his name is firmly in the record books.

Other players who share Messi’s mark

Former LA Galaxy striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic achieved eight multi-goal matches in 2019, while Stern John recorded the same feat for Columbus Crew in 1998. Mamadou Diallo also matched the mark with Tampa Bay in 2000, placing Messi in elite company as he continues to redefine excellence in MLS.

Inter Miami are no longer in contention for the Supporters’ Shield, which went to the Philadelphia Union this season after the Herons lifted it last year. However, Javier Mascherano’s side is determined to finish as high as possible in the standings to secure home-field advantage in most of their playoff games.

That’s why this match carried major importance for Inter Miami — and it’s also the reason Argentina’s coaching staff decided to leave Messi out of the friendly against Venezuela, allowing him to stay with his club for this crucial game.

With Messi on the field, it was always going to be tough to keep him off the scoresheet. After a ball recovery by Baltasar Rodriguez, the midfielder found his compatriot with a smart pass, and Messi fired a brilliant left-footed strike inside the box — leaving Jayden Hibbert with no chance to make the save.

But that wouldn’t be all from Messi on the night. With just four minutes left on the clock, Jordi Alba delivered a brilliant assist — reminiscent of their Barcelona days — allowing Messi to control the ball and fire home Inter Miami’s fourth and final goal.

With this win, Inter Miami draw level with FC Cincinnati for second place on 62 points but hold a superior goal difference with one game remaining in the regular season.

Messi chasing back-to-back MVP honors

Inter Miami’s captain is putting together a spectacular MLS season. With his latest goal, he now stands alone atop the league’s scoring chart with 26 goals—two ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga. As if that weren’t enough, he also ranks second in assists with 17, just one behind Anders Dreyer’s 18.

Thanks to Inter Miami’s strong campaign, Messi has emerged as a leading contender for the league’s MVP award. If he wins, he would become the first player in MLS history to claim the honor in back-to-back seasons.

Although the former Barcelona star was called up by Lionel Scaloni for Argentina’s international friendlies in the United States on October 10 and 14, Lionel Messi will start tonight against Atlanta United.

The Inter Miami captain trained all week with the national team in Miami, but Scaloni chose to rest him for the friendly against Venezuela at Hard Rock Stadium. That decision fueled speculation about Messi’s availability for Inter Miami’s upcoming match.

A few days earlier, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the topic during a press conference, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Messi’s status.

“If he doesn’t play against Venezuela and there’s a chance he can play on Saturday, I’d love that. Imagine having Lionel Messi available. But the reality is that he hasn’t trained with us all week,” Mascherano said.

Lionel Messi’s impressive 2025 season

Inter Miami’s captain is having his best campaign since joining the Florida club. Messi currently shares the lead in the MLS Golden Boot race with Denis Bouanga, both sitting at 24 goals, and ranks second in assists with 17—just one behind Anders Dreyer’s 18.

The Argentine star is also a top contender for the league’s MVP award. If he wins, he would become the only player in MLS history to earn the honor in back-to-back seasons.

Although Inter Miami fell short of winning a second consecutive Supporters’ Shield—this year claimed by the Philadelphia Union—the team has delivered strong results throughout the regular season and remains in contention with FC Cincinnati for second place in the Eastern Conference.

[Watch Pumas UNAM vs Atlanta United live in the USA on Apple TV]

Pumas UNAM head into their second Leagues Cup match with two points after salvaging a draw in regulation and pulling off a penalty shootout win against Orlando City—a gritty result that offered some relief after a tough debut.

They’ll now look to build on that momentum against an Atlanta United side under pressure following a 3-1 loss to Necaxa. Atlanta may not be the favorites, but with everything on the line, their desperation could turn them into a dangerous challenge.

When will the Pumas UNAM vs Atlanta United match be played?

Pumas UNAM will take on Atlanta United this Saturday, August 2, in a Matchday 2 showdown of the 2025 Leagues Cup league stage, with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 PM (ET).

Pumas UNAM vs Atlanta United: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM
CT: 8:00 PM
MT: 7:00 PM
PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch Pumas UNAM vs Atlanta United in the USA

Tune in to MLS League Pass on Apple TV to catch the 2025 Leagues Cup showdown between Pumas UNAM and Atlanta United in the USA.

[Watch Atlanta United vs Inter Miami live in the USA on Apple TV]

Fresh off a 2-0 victory that secured their spot in the next round, Inter Miami are shifting focus back to the Eastern Conference race, aiming to climb to the top. Standing in their way are Atlanta United, the team that knocked them out in the first round of the 2024 MLS season.

While Atlanta have struggled early, collecting just four points from a possible nine, they remain determined to disrupt Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s momentum and walk away with a crucial win.

When will the Atlanta United vs Inter Miami match be played?

Atlanta United will face Inter Miami this Sunday, March 16, in the Matchday 4 of the 2025 MLS season, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 PM (ET).

Atlanta United vs Inter Miami: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:00 PM

CT: 6:00 PM

MT: 5:00 PM

PT: 4:00 PM

How to watch Atlanta United vs Inter Miami in the USA

Tune in to MLS League Pass on Apple TV to catch the 2025 MLS regular season showdown between Atlanta United and Inter Miami, live in the USA.

Inter Miami visit the Mercedes Benz Stadium for their clash with Atlanta United for Matchday 4 of the 2025 MLS season. After a great performance against Cavalier SC for the Concacaf Champions Cup, Lionel Messi is confirmed to play tonight.

Javier Mascherano, Miami’s head coach, said on Saturday morning that the plan was for Messi to travel to Atlanta. “The plan was for him to play 30 to 35 minutes in Jamaica so he could feel good again, and it went well,” Mascherano told the press.

Messi is coming off from a muscle strain that kept him out of three games. However, the Argentine star came off the bench at the 53-minute mark during the second leg match against Cavalier to score the 2-0 for Miami, and close the series with a 4-0 aggregate win.

Thanks to the victory, Miami advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament, in which they will face Los Angeles FC in April. However, first, Messi will join Argentina’s national team for matches against Uruguay and Brazil in the World Cup qualifiers.

Even without Messi’s absence in some matches, Miami is in second place in the Eastern Conference with two wins, no losses, and a tie (seven points). Meanwhile, Atlanta, who eliminated Miami in the first round of the Playoffs last season, is in 11th place with four points.

Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup vs Atlanta

Marcelo Weigandt (hamstring) and David Ruiz (leg injury) were the only players absent from Saturday’s training, while Robert Taylor (hamstring) trained separately. Drake Callender will travel with the team after recovering from an adductor injury. Oscar Ustari is serving a red card suspension Sunday night, with Rocco Rios Novo will start.

Miami’s confirmed lineup is: Rocco Rios Novo; Gonzalo Lujan, Maxi Falcon, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba; Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets, Tadeo Allende; Telasco Segovia, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.

[Watch Atlanta United vs CF Montreal live in the USA on Apple TV]

A new MLS season starts, and among the title contenders are Atlanta United, who are coming off a surprising 2024 campaign. Despite finishing ninth, they made a run to the playoffs, eliminating Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami before falling in the Conference semifinals.

Now, Atlanta have their sights set on a deeper playoff run. Their first challenge comes in the form of CF Montreal, the team they knocked out in last year’s play-in round. Montreal will be out for revenge, looking to start the season strong and make up for their early exit.

When will the Atlanta United vs CF Montreal match be played?

Atlanta United take on CF Montreal this Saturday, February 22, in the Matchday 1 of the 2025 MLS season, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 PM (ET).

Atlanta United vs CF Montreal: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:30 PM

CT: 6:30 PM

MT: 5:30 PM

PT: 4:30 PM

How to watch Atlanta United vs CF Montreal in the USA

Tune in to MLS League Pass on Apple TV to catch the 2025 MLS regular season showdown between Atlanta United and CF Montreal, live in the USA.

In modern soccer, it’s no longer just about goals or trophies won; now, the real competition is on social media. But which teams are leading the charge, making the most noise, and building the most loyal digital communities?

With millions of fans scrolling through their feeds and liking every highlighted moment, MLS teams are battling for digital supremacy, using their online presence to connect, interact and even entertain.

From the rise of Inter Miami, driven by Lionel Messi’s superstar status, to the passionate fanbases of teams like Atlanta United and Seattle Sounders, MLS has become a true virtual battleground.

10. Portland Timbers

Portland Timbers, with 665,000 followers, are synonymous with one of the most dedicated and passionate fanbases in MLS. Their supporters, “Timbers Army”, are legendary for creating a vibrant, electric atmosphere at Providence Park.

The team’s social media accounts serve as an extension of this fervor, often sharing fan celebrations, behind-the-scenes footage, and matchday excitement. The Timbers’ social media highlights the community-driven aspect of the club, with content that showcases their connection to the city of Portland and their loyal supporters. This unique and close-knit relationship with fans has cemented their place among the top teams in MLS social media.

9. New York Red Bulls

As one of the original MLS franchises, the New York Red Bulls have built a respected digital presence with 693,000 followers. Their social media reflects the club’s longstanding history in MLS, with a steady stream of content that celebrates both the team’s past achievements and its current endeavors.

The Red Bulls often highlight their academy players and community outreach, tying their digital presence to both the team’s heritage and its ongoing commitment to developing future stars. The club’s fanbase is loyal and engaged, with digital content often sparking meaningful conversations about the team’s legacy and future.

8. Orlando City SC

With 983,000 followers, Orlando City SC is known for its passionate and highly engaged fanbase. The team’s social media platforms reflect this fervor, regularly showcasing fan-created content, matchday excitement, and behind-the-scenes access.

Orlando City’s “Lion Nation” supporters group is renowned for creating a lively atmosphere, which translates directly into their online presence. Whether it’s player highlights, community events or fan stories, Orlando City ensures that its social media channels remain full of action, keeping their dedicated followers involved and excited.

7. Toronto FC

Toronto FC has become a dominant force in Canadian football, both on the field and online, with 1 million followers. As one of the top Canadian teams in the MLS, Toronto’s social media presence is characterized by a blend of local pride and international appeal.

The club frequently features content that highlights its role as the face of Canadian football, with special focus on the team’s Canadian talent and their fan engagement initiatives.

Toronto’s success in recent years, including MLS Cup championships, continues to solidify its digital footprint, as followers are drawn to its rich history and dedication to growing the sport in Canada.

6. Seattle Sounders FC

The Seattle Sounders FC enjoys a steadfast online presence, boasting 1.1 million followers. Known for their intense, loyal fanbase and passionate matchday atmosphere at Lumen Field, the Sounders’ social media accounts are a vibrant hub of content that captures the spirit of Seattle’s football culture.

The team’s online strategy emphasizes community involvement, celebrating both on-field achievements and fan experiences. Their Sounders FC channels provide engaging match previews, fan stories, and player highlights, maintaining high levels of interaction with supporters. Seattle’s combination of success and fan-driven content has helped establish them as one of the most respected and loved teams in the MLS.

5. New York City FC

As the only MLS team representing one of the most influential cities in the world, New York City FC has become an online force with 1.3 million followers. The city’s status as a global metropolis allows NYCFC to tap into a diverse and passionate fanbase from all corners of the world.

Their social media presence thrives on this global reach, sharing content in multiple languages and celebrating the city’s multicultural identity. The club also emphasizes its connection with the city, showcasing the team’s role in New York’s sports and cultural fabric.

Matchday experiences, player interviews, and unique behind-the-scenes moments from one of the most iconic cities in the world have made NYCFC’s social media channels a staple for fans locally and abroad.

4. Los Angeles FC (LAFC)

Los Angeles FC, with 1.6 million followers, is another club on the rise in both MLS and social media. The team’s recent achievements, including their 2022 MLS Cup victory, have helped propel their online presence into overdrive. LAFC’s dedicated fanbase, known as the “Black and Gold,” has made the club’s social channels a hotbed for high-energy content.

The club’s rapid success on the field, paired with their savvy use of digital media, has made them a fan favorite and a social media juggernaut. Their content often includes fan reactions, matchday experiences, and interviews with players, all designed to keep followers engaged. LAFC’s ability to marry on-field success with compelling digital content has made them a team to watch, both in the stadium and online.

3. Atlanta United FC

Atlanta United FC has carved out a unique identity in the MLS with its passionate fanbase and impressive 1.7 million followers. The team’s social media presence is distinguished by an incredibly engaged and loyal fan group, which reflects the city’s deep love for the sport.

Known for its high-energy fan experiences at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the team has garnered widespread praise for its electrifying home support, often called one of the best in North America. Atlanta United’s digital presence reflects this energy, with content that emphasizes the excitement surrounding their matches and behind-the-scenes moments with players.

Whether it’s matchday celebrations, player highlights, or fan-created content, Atlanta’s social media channels maintain a dynamic flow that resonates with their passionate audience, making them a constant presence in MLS social media discussions.

2. LA Galaxy

With 3.4 million followers, LA Galaxy maintains its position as one of the top teams in the MLS, both on the field and in the digital space. As one of the league’s most successful and storied franchises, the club’s social media accounts are constantly buzzing with content highlighting its past glory, including multiple MLS Cup victories.

The legacy of the club is a huge part of its online presence, as Galaxy’s fans celebrate the history of their team, which has been home to legendary players like David Beckham, Landon Donovan, and Zlatan Ibrahimović. This combination of rich history and present-day relevance ensures that LA Galaxy’s social media presence remains robust and engaging, attracting millions of followers who reflect the team’s broad fan base. The consistency of the club’s success, both past and present, keeps it relevant in the digital conversation.

1. Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami CF has undeniably become the powerhouse of MLS social media, with a staggering 28.9 million followers. This exponential growth can largely be attributed to the iconic signing of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi in 2023.

His arrival catapulted the club to international stardom, flooding its social media platforms with massive engagement and a flood of new fans. In the digital realm, the buzz surrounding his matches, training sessions, and personal moments with his family have ensured Inter Miami’s place as one of the most-discussed teams in MLS.

The team’s online engagement not only skyrocketed after Messi’s signing but has also attracted attention from casual viewers and die-hard football fans alike. Inter Miami’s social presence now reflects its global ambitions, setting a new benchmark for other MLS teams to follow.

This week, Atlanta United officially announced the signing of Emmanuel Latte Lath, a 26-year-old forward who arrives from Middlesbrough of England’s EFL Championship. What makes this deal particularly noteworthy is the reported transfer fee: $22 million plus add-ons, making Latte Lath the most expensive signing in MLS history.

Born in the Ivory Coast, Emmanuel began his professional career at 17 with Italy’s Atalanta, though he only appeared in three official matches before being loaned to several clubs in Italy. His breakthrough came in Switzerland with St. Gallen, where he impressed with his performances and earned a move to England.

During his time with Middlesbrough, Latte Lath played 67 games between 2023 and 2024, netting 29 goals. His stellar form in the EFL Championship earned him a call-up to the Ivory Coast national team, making his debut last year in a World Cup qualifier against Gabon. Now, he’ll look to make an impact in MLS, with Atlanta United banking heavily on his potential as a marquee signing.

Latte Lath speaks on his move to Atlanta United

After arriving in the United States, Emmanuel Latte Lath sat down with Atlanta United’s official website to discuss why he chose the club for the next step in his career. “They gave me interest, big interest. How they spoke to me and how I can be important,” he explained. “I got really excited because I saw myself and thought I could do something big.”

When asked about his playing style, Latte Lath described himself: “Fast. I like to run in behind the defender.” He also shared insights into his leadership qualities. “I can be a leader without being a captain because I like to help my teammates, but I also like when they help me,” he said. “Try to be calm and understand what they try to tell you, even if they scream at you, just understand people. I can see myself in leadership about communication with the team.”

Looking ahead to his time in the U.S., the forward also expressed his excitement about experiencing American culture. “I want to see NBA and baseball,” he said with enthusiasm. “Really, there are many things I want to see. In Europe, you see about America just on video. But now that I’m here, I want to see everything, but the first thing is the NBA.”

When will Latte Lath face Lionel Messi?

Atlanta United proved to be a tough opponent for Inter Miami last season, defeating them at Chase Stadium during the regular season and eliminating them in the opening round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs. Now, with the addition of the most expensive player in MLS history, Atlanta United are looking to be even more formidable.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will face off against Emmanuel Latte Lath’s Atlanta United on Matchday 4 of the 2025 season, with the Herons traveling to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, March 16. The two teams will meet again on June 28 in Miami.