Atlanta United are back in action in MLS against Seattle Sounders, and they’ll be looking to get a positive result on the road after a disappointing Leagues Cup campaign and a busy summer transfer window.
The Five Stripes will be well-rested coming into this one, as they last played against Cruz Azul on July 29, where they were defeated 1-1 (5-4 on pens.) to seal their exit from Leagues Cup.
New signing Tristian Muyumba looked excellent in an attacking midfield role just behind Giorgos Giakoumakis, and we can expect to see more of him in an Atlanta shirt. Xande Silva, who was signed on loan from Dijon, is expected to be part of the travelling squad to Seattle and could make his first appearance of the bench.
However, Saba Lobzhandize and Jamal Thiare are not expected to play any part in the game. Against Cruz Azul, head coach Gonzalo Pineda opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation that worked quite well, as Atlanta were able to create plenty of chances but were just lacking the final pass. Pineda will more than likely choose the same or a similar formation to keep his backline in check.
GK: Brad Guzan – Atlanta’s skipper remains in between the sticks despite his declining play in 2023. His passing ability is key to how Atlanta wants to to play the game, though.
CB: Juan Jose Purata – The left-footed defender is capable of playing on the right side of a back three and could be set to take up that position yet again.
CB: Miles Robinson – No surprises here. Atlanta’s best center-back slots right into the middle of the backline.
CB: Luis Abram – Perhaps one of the more underrated options, Abram should get the nod on the left side to help balance things out at the back.
RM: Brooks Lennon – Whether at full-back or wing-back, Lennon always has tremendous work rate and is capable of pinging in a cross from the wider areas of the pitch.
CM: Amar Sejdic – Even though he’s not one of the flashier players in the Atlanta squad, Sejdic helps the side tick in the middle of the park and picks up any loose balls.
CM: Matheus Rossetto – Although he’s underperformed for most of 2023, Rossetto was solid against Cruz Azul and should be in line for another start.
LM: Caleb Wiley – Like Lennon, Caleb Wiley typically excels wherever he’s played because of his impressive pace and skill.
AM: Tristan Muyumba – Muyumba impressed many in his debut vs Cruz Azul and will have a chance to claim his spot in the starting XI in the games to come.
AM: Thiago Almada – Almada’s been in top form for most of the current season with 18 goals and assists, keeping Atlanta alive in their hunt for a strong playoff position.
ST: Giorgos Giakoumakis – When ‘GG’ has been available, he’s been a workhorse for the Five Stripes and his 10 goals in his first season at the club are nothing short of impressive.
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