Chris Henderson Joins Atlanta United as Sporting Director

Chris Henderson has been appointed as the new Sporting Director of Atlanta United, reuniting him with club president Garth Lagerwey, with whom he had a successful tenure at the Seattle Sounders from 2008 to 2021. Henderson's move from Inter Miami, where he played a key role in signing big names like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, comes after his role was overshadowed by the appointment of Raul Sanllehi as Miami's President of Soccer Operations. Atlanta United compensates Miami with a second-round 2026 MLS SuperDraft pick for Henderson, who replaces Carlos Bocanegra. Henderson's immediate tasks include filling two Designated Player slots and reinforcing the team, which reached the Eastern Conference semifinals this season. His past success in navigating MLS complexities is anticipated to aid Atlanta in achieving consistent victories. Henderson's hiring is part of Lagerwey's strategy to rebuild the team, which has been without a permanent manager since June 2023.