Second Division team will aide in long-term player development for Academy and Homegrown Players; provide short-term loan opportunities for First Team
Atlanta United today announced plans to own and operate a second-division team that will join the United Soccer League (USL) for the 2018 season. The club’s name and crest will be released in the coming months.
“This is a great opportunity for our club’s long-term success to be able to bridge the gap between our best in class academy and our First Team,” Atlanta United President Darren Eales said. “Establishing a top-level Academy was the first priority for our club and while our staff has done a marvelous job in identifying and developing young players, the next step has always been to create the pathway for the 18-to-19-year-old player who needs to continue his development before competing for a starting position at the MLS level.