Atlanta United president and CEO Garth Lagerwey is taking an indefinite leave of absence to focus on his cancer treatment and recovery, the team announced on Tuesday.

“I am mindful that leadership of Atlanta United requires full-time attention, and right now I simply must focus on my health and ongoing cancer treatment,” Lagerwey said in a team statement.

“I am appreciative of the club considering my health needs during such a challenging time, and I am also encouraged by my treatment progress and long-term outlook.”

Lagerwey announced in July that he would be taking an indefinite leave of absence after being diagnosed with cancer.

The 52-year-old returned to work in September in a "limited capacity," per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

In Lagerwey's absence, chief soccer officer Chris Henderson, vice president of strategy Dimitrios Efstathiou and chief business officer Sarah Kate Noftsinger will oversee day-to-day operations of the club.

Lagerwey took charge of Atlanta United in 2022 after building his reputation as one of the top executives in MLS following MLS Cup-winning stints with Real Salt Lake and the Seattle Sounders.

This article originally appeared on Pro Soccer Wire: Atlanta United CEO Lagerwey takes second leave amid cancer battle

Reporting by Seth Vertelney, Pro Soccer Wire / Pro Soccer Wire

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