Mexico head coach Juan Carlos Osorio was in Atlanta on Tuesday to drum up some publicity for El Tri’s May 28 Copa America Centenario warmup match against Paraguay at the Georgia Dome, and he had some kind words for incoming MLS club Atlanta United FC and technical director Carlos Bocanegra at his press conference.
Osorio, who served as head coach of the Chicago Fire in 2007 and New York Red Bulls in 2008 and 2009, called bringing in Bocanegra “a great step forward” for Atlanta, according to Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Doug Roberson. Atlanta will join MLS in 2017.
Osorio, himself a former player, also praised MLS clubs for integrating ex-pros into their coaching ranks and front office staffs. He’ll lead Mexico in Group C against Jamaica, Uruguay and Venezuela at this summer’s Copa America.
Atlanta, who currently have two players – goalkeeper Alexandros Tabakis and midfielder Junior Burgos – under contract for next year, unveiled their plans for a $60 million training facility in suburban Marietta, Georgia on Monday.
