2020 Supporters' Shield

Lore & Background

The 2019 campaign was a masterclass in consistency. The team displayed an attacking flair rarely seen in MLS, led by the prolific Josef Martínez who also claimed the Golden Boot and MVP honors simultaneously. This Shield victory validated the club's ambitious project from its inception, proving they could sustain excellence over a grueling schedule rather than just peaking for playoffs.

The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium became legendary during this run. The 'A-Train' fans created a cauldron that unsettled visiting sides and propelled the home team to crucial victories. This trophy was not merely about points; it was a cultural statement that Atlanta United belonged among the league's elite, setting a standard for future squads to emulate in their pursuit of regular-season supremacy.

Reader's Guide

Atlanta United secured their first Supporters' Shield during the 2018 MLS season, finishing atop the league table with a record-breaking 79 points at the time. This achievement capped off a year where they also won the U.S. Open Cup, completing a historic double.

Manager Gerardo Martino implemented a high-pressing system that overwhelmed opponents throughout the regular season. Josef Martínez was instrumental, scoring goals and providing leadership on the pitch. The team's home record at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was particularly formidable, often serving as the launchpad for their title charge.

This Shield remains a singular achievement in club history regarding regular-season dominance. It established a benchmark for performance that subsequent seasons aimed to reach, highlighting the importance of consistency over the long MLS campaign.

Did You Know?

• Atlanta United's 58 points were a club record, though the MLS single-season record at the time was 73 points by Toronto FC in 2017.
• This was Atlanta United's first major trophy since joining MLS in 2017.