Atlanta United’s de Boer: Pity Martinez isn’t getting loaned

Atlanta United manager Frank de Boer described as "ridiculous" a report out of Argentina that Pity Martinez may be loaned back to River Plate.

Speaking Tuesday ahead of Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup match against Saint Louis FC, de Boer said he heard about Monday’s report when his son-in-law shared it with him Tuesday.

» More: What will Atlanta United do about Pity Martinez?

Martinez, acquired in January from River Plate, has two goals and four assists this season and has been subbed off in each of the past two matches.

“We are just halfway through the season,” de Boer said. “The first six months are always the hardest for everyone. He has a new coach. He has to adapt. It comes with ups and downs. We have a lot of confidence in his quality. He knows that he has to do better. He wants to do better. He’s working hard. We have a lot of trust in him.

“I don’t know where those rumors come from, but they aren’t based on anything.”

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