Frank de Boer Named Atlanta United Head Coach

Atlanta United confirmed on Sunday that Frank de Boer has been appointed as their new head coach:

The Dutchman takes over from Tata Martino, who stepped down after winning the 2018 MLS Cup with a 2-0 victory over the Portland Timbers.

De Boer's most recent managerial post was at Premier League side Crystal Palace. He was sacked after just 77 days in charge in September 2017 and replaced by Roy Hodgson.

De Boer also had a short spell in charge of Italian giants Inter Milan prior to his spell in England. However, he managed just 85 days at the San Siro, per BBC Sport.

Football writer David Amoyal offered some insight into his spell in Serie A:

His most successful managerial spell came at Dutch side Ajax. He spent six years with the Eredivisie club and guided the team to four league titles. 

The former defender also worked for two years as an assistant to Bert van Marwijk with the Netherlands national side, helping the team finish runners-up to Spain at the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

De Boer has signed a "multiyear contract" with Atlanta, according to the club's official website. The Dutchman has spoken about his ambitions with the club:

"I would like to build on the current success to develop a secure, solid foundation for the club at the top of MLS and beyond.

"Aside from the club's ambitions, the values, culture and the philosophy for the entire organization are a vital part in realizing that point of success. 

"This is exactly what I believe in as a person and as a coach. All of this combined, makes that I am really excited to be a part of it."

Radio host Mike Conti explained why it's an exciting appointment for Atlanta:

De Boer enjoyed a superb playing career for both club and country. He won five league titles with Ajax, as well as the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Cup. He also won the Spanish league title with Barcelona.

Additionally, the former defender won 112 caps for the Netherlands and was part of the team that finished fourth at the 1998 World Cup.

ESPN's Dave Denholm offered his view:

The move gives De Boer the chance to revive his managerial reputation after disastrous spells in England and Italy. He'll take over a side fresh from winning the MLS Cup and will be expected to continue their success.