The Atlanta United FC is an American professional soccer team based in Atlanta, Georgia, whose first team began play in 2017 as a member of the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer (MLS). The team, which was announced by the league as an expansion franchise on April 16, 2014, is owned and operated by Home Depot co-founder and Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank. The first team plays their home games at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The reserve team, Atlanta United 2, play their home games at Coolray Field. Based on attendance, Atlanta United FC is the best supported club in MLS.
On February 10, 2017, Atlanta United announced that the number 17 would be reserved for the fans. The number marks the year of the team's inaugural season in MLS. "Atlanta United aims to recognize that from the very beginning, the fans, the city, and the people define the spirit and essence of this club," the team explained in the official statement regarding the number's dedication.
On January 22, 2021, the club also reserved for the 2021 MLS season the number 44. Following the death of Hank Aaron, a National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee who played for the Atlanta Braves from 1966 to 1974, Atlanta-area sports teams on the amateur and professional level agreed to retire Aaron's 44 regardless of sport as a tribute.