Atlanta City FC took a major step toward launching its National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion franchise when the club introduced Richard Gunney as chief soccer officer at a press event in Mercedes‑Benz Stadium on Nov. 2.
Gunney’s experience and vision
Gunney brings more than a decade of NWSL experience, having served as director of scouting and roster development for Gotham FC and working with San Diego Wave FC during its inaugural season. Mauricio Culebro, president of soccer for AMB Sports and Entertainment, praised Gunney’s background in coaching, scouting and player development, saying it makes him an ideal leader for the new Atlanta club.
“The main part for me was, and for the search committee, just finding someone who wanted to come to this city and to start something new,” Culebro said.
Building a roster from scratch
The club has three recruitment windows – January 2027, summer 2027 and January 2028 – and Gunney plans to spread 26 player signings across those periods while immediately beginning the search for a head coach. A key priority is attracting U.S. women’s national team players who can set the tone and standards for the organization.
“We aspire to have that same core, that spine, not necessarily a positional spine, but a cohort of players that set the tone, drive the standards, lead by example,” Gunney explained.
Local talent and community focus
Gunney emphasized the importance of Georgia’s existing soccer programs and hopes to recruit home‑grown talent. “I believe Georgia is top four for a state of … representation in the NWSL, and it clearly shows there’s a talent pool here on our doorstep,” he said.
With the NWSL college draft eliminated, Atlanta can sign collegiate players directly, allowing the club to bring promising young athletes into the roster as early as 2027.
Playing style and fan experience
Gunney envisions an attacking, entertaining style that reflects Atlanta’s identity and gives supporters a reason to fill Mercedes‑Benz Stadium. He also highlighted the club’s slogan, “We Play Different,” as an invitation to innovate rather than simply follow tradition.
Community engagement
Community values were a decisive factor for Gunney. “Giving back to our community is part of our core values, and that’s something that is going to be a part of the core values of the team, players, staff,” he said.
Culebro noted that community work has already begun, even before any players are signed. The club has involved Atlanta residents in shaping its crest, imagery and colors, and plans to deepen relationships with local girls and women who play soccer.
Supporter opportunities
Fans can become founding members by placing a $50 non‑refundable deposit toward season tickets, which secures priority seating selection in spring 2027 and grants exclusive benefits such as merchandise discounts, special events and member recognition.
Looking ahead
Atlanta City FC aims to debut in the 2028 NWSL season and hopes to compete in the Arthur M. Blank Crest Cup, a new national women’s soccer tournament that will feature clubs from the NWSL and the Gainbridge Super League.
While the full roster and coaching staff are still being assembled, Gunney’s focus on talent acquisition, community partnership and an innovative playing philosophy signals a promising start for Atlanta’s newest professional women’s soccer team.
Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.
