Atlanta United FC chief executive officer Garth Lagerwey will not return to the club, according to an Atlanta United spokesperson. Lagerwey and Atlanta United announced in October that he would take an indefinite leave of absence to focus on medical treatment and recovery, following a cancer diagnosis in July. The 52-year-old CEO joined Atlanta United in November 2022, bringing his experience as a pragmatic squad builder and knowledge of the league's intricate roster rules. Lagerwey introduced a data-backed approach to scouting, which was meant to coincide with a reevaluation of the club's player development model and its designated player strategy. During his tenure, Atlanta United finished in sixth, ninth, and 14th place in the Eastern Conference, with the upset of Lionel Messi's Inter Miami side in the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs being a highlight. The club is now undergoing a global search to fill Lagerwey's position, which will oversee both Atlanta United and the expansion NWSL side set to debut in 2028. Chris Henderson, who Lagerwey hired in December 2024, is well-placed to continue the men's team rebuild under head coach Tata Martino. The new hire will supervise two separate sporting entities with their own strategies and front offices, requiring experience in women's professional sports. Atlanta United owner Arthur Blank and AMB Sports and Entertainment will consider various factors in their search for a new leader. The club's spokesperson confirmed that a global search is underway, with the new role having a different title but a larger scope of work than Lagerwey's position as CEO. As the search begins, Atlanta United FC's fans and stakeholders await the announcement of a new leader to guide the club forward. The team's performance on the field will be closely watched, as they look to improve their standings in the Eastern Conference. With the addition of an NWSL club to the organization, the new leader will face increased responsibilities and challenges. Atlanta United FC's future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the club is committed to finding a leader who can bring success and stability to the organization.