Atlanta United flattered by Miami interest in VP

ajc.com

Though Miami’s interminable search for a stadium is ongoing, the hopeful MLS expansion club is reportedly trying to hire Paul McDonough, vice president of Atlanta United.

Five Stripes president Darren Eales, in a statement from the club, said Miami’s interest in McDonough is a “positive reflection of the club,” but pointed out that McDonough is under contract through 2022 after recently signing an extension.

Miami’s interest was first reported by Paul Tenorio.

McDonough has been an invaluable part of Atlanta United’s success. Coming to Atlanta from Orlando City, where he was vice president of soccer operation, he has overseen the construction of the $60 million training facility in Marietta, as well as player contracts and transfers of the team’s players.

Atlanta United became the first expansion team since Seattle in 2009 to make the playoffs last season. It has the most points (41) in MLS this season.

Miami’s franchise is led by David Beckham. The franchise was announced in 2014, but not awarded expansion status until 2019. It is supposed to launch in 2020, but still doesn’t have a stadium, which was one of the requirements put forth by league commissioner Don Garber in 2014.