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Darren Eales: What Does He Bring to Atlanta United FC

By Ian Thomas

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With the recent proposal and permission to build a new training facility and front office building in DeKalb County (off of I-285), Atlanta United FC’s inaugural season is feeling closer every day.

While nothing is yet known about options for our head coach, assistant head coach and even players, fans can rest easy knowing that our President of Football Operations will pick personnel that will allow us to succeed.

-=Related:Atlanta United Unveil New Practice Facility=-

For those that don’t know who Darren Eales is, here is a little background information on him.  Mr. Eales grew up in England, and eventually came across the pond to play both collegiately (at Brown University where he was an All-American) as well as professionally (for the Hampton Road Mariners a USL team-the Atlanta Silverbacks play in the USL).  Eales also attended Cambridge University, where he studied law, and then passed the bar.

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With this background, he eventually moved into working in the front office for various professional teams.  His big break came after becoming Tottenham Hotspurs Director of Football Administration in 2010.  Eales oversaw one of the biggest trades in Soccer history with Gareth Bale being traded to Real Madrid.  This is only one of the trades that he oversaw and helped pushed through during his tenure at Tottenham.

While this may seem somewhat miniscule to the average soccer fan, his experience with one of the top clubs in the English Premier League is priceless.  By hiring Darren Eales, Atlanta United FC already have a massive boost in management.  His negotiation skills (look at the Gareth Bale, Clint Dempsey, and Jermain Defoe trades), knowledge of the game (having played his whole life), and his passion for the game, puts him in the top bracket for Presidents and the season hasn’t even started.  By working in the EPL, Eales has a key offering that other President’s in the MLS might not have, a known name, and access to top players in the EPL and later other top flight divisions.

"“Soccer is a lifetime passion of mine, and to have the chance to come to Atlanta and build a club from the ground up is extremely exciting.” -Eales said"

It wouldn’t surprise me if Mr. Eales’ name alone can put him in the room with execs from PSG, Manchester United, Real Madrid; this allows him to have first hand contact with star players that might have interest in playing in the MLS.  I’m not saying that this is a guarantee by any means that Darren can sign top-level talent from across the world, but it definitely helps Atlanta United get its foot in the door when looking for players.

I know I’m excited to see what steps Darren Eales will take in the future, and I know the fans are as well.  With star players coming out and saying they want to play in the MLS, Darren Eales definitely brings a hope that Atlanta United can snag a world-class talent.

What do you think Darren Eales brings to the table?

Next: Atlanta United FC: Building a Strong Youth Academy

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