Meet Gonzalo "Pity" Martínez, Atlanta United's newest star

Atlanta United has just announced the signing of another young star to add to its championship-winning squad – Gonzalo “Pity” Martínez – the reigning South American Player of the Year. We sat down with the Argentine midfielder to get his very first words after signing with the Five Stripes about his journey to MLS and what attracted him to the ATL. Here's what he had to say:

How did you hear about the club and what was your first impression?

The first time I saw Atlanta was very nice, something that attracted me a lot. The way the club works, how it handles things and how it’s grown a lot, so I’m very happy to be here.

What was your motivation for coming to Atlanta?

That was my motivation, that the club is growing, the league is getting more competitive. I’m coming from Argentine soccer, which is very difficult, very competitive, so it motivated me that this league is growing by huge steps

Of all your qualities on the pitch, what would you say is your strongest? Off the field?

I think I can contribute to the team my one-on-one ability, which is my biggest strength. Off the field, it’s difficult to say in one, but I consider myself a good person that adds to the group, and hopefully I can get adjusted to the group as fast as possible.

Have you ever played with or against any of your new teammates in Atlanta?

I think I played against Miguel, at Lanús. He’s a great player, he’s demonstrated that here also. Those are nice moments that you remember and now I have the possibility to share the field with him.

I talked often with Leandro, from the very beginning he spoke highly of the club and about the group. He’s helped me and guided me a little in regards to the club, the city and he convinced me to take this step.”

How did you feel about fans greeting you at the airport upon your arrival?

It surprised me because it was so early. I didn’t think there would be people there. They welcomed me with great affection. And that makes you happy and gives me strength to start this new stage of my life.

Why do River fans call you “loco” (crazy)? Do you think it will carry over to Atlanta?

The River fans gave me that recently because I was able to score various times against Boca, our rival, and I think it was for that.

I don’t know how the Atlanta fans will take it, hopefully in the best way, and hopefully I’ll be able to perform on the field, which is why they signed me, and they’ll get to know me as a person and see the type of person I am also.

What would you prefer to be called? Pity or Gonzalo?

The Atlanta fans can call me Pity, it’s been like that since I was a kid. I’ll leave it up to them, but what most represents me is Pity.

What excites you most about your new chapter here in Atlanta?

To come to a beautiful country, from what I’ve seen a beautiful city, at a club that won everything last year. That motivates me a lot, to keep competing for titles, and that’s why I came, to try to accomplish new things in this new stage of my life so I’m coming motivated to contribute to the team in the best way.