Thursday saw Atlanta United and Atlanta United 2 conduct a joint training session at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground. The two teams, which typically train separately, shared Fields 1 and 2 for drills that integrated both First Team and Atlanta United 2 players. Some younger Academy members also participated, gaining experience alongside more seasoned professionals.
Movement between the two squads has been frequent this season. Homegrown signings such as Cooper Sanchez and Dominik Chong Qui have joined from the Academy, while First Team players including Cayman Togashi, Luke Brennan, Will Reilly, and Josh Cohen have appeared in matches with Atlanta United 2. Coaches observed closely as players worked together on buildup patterns and defensive formations.
Head coach Ronny Deila commented on the value of these joint sessions: “They [the 2s players] feel the level that is in the first team,” Deila said. “It just should be a short way from the from the second team to the first team, so they feel connected to it. We are doing a lot of the same things, so I think that is a good and important thing.”
Following training, new summer signings Steven Alzate and Juan Berrocal addressed media for their first time since joining Atlanta United. Alzate discussed his upbringing in London within a Colombian family: “London’s a multicultural city,” Alzate said. “You get people from all over the world. Growing up in a Colombian household, but obviously being able to speak English was nice, just being able to speak both languages and understand different cultures. I’d like to think I bring the English and Colombian side to the game.”
Alzate previously played under Deila at Standard Liège in Belgium before moving to MLS. He spoke about his relationship with Deila: “He gave me his trust, and obviously, as a player, you need to return the trust as well on the pitch,” Alzate said. “I felt comfortable, confident as a player. If you’re playing with confidence, you’re playing well.”
Deila sees Alzate filling multiple roles in midfield depending on team needs; he could play either as a defensive midfielder or further forward with attacking responsibilities.
Alzate described his approach: “I’ve come to do the dirty work, the creative side, I’ve come to do everything,” he said. “Now, in modern day football you need to be able to do everything.”
Both newcomers have made appearances off the bench but have yet to start for Atlanta United since their arrival midseason—a process affected by building fitness after coming from leagues out of season.
“It’s difficult,” Berrocal said about adapting physically after arriving from Spain’s offseason period. “But I’m trying to improve and trying to keep the physical condition.”
Berrocal reflected on moving outside Spain for his career: “I haven’t seen a training center like this,” Berrocal said. “The project, the staff, the coaches, the city, the country—I want a new challenge in my career and I’m very happy.”
Both players will be available for selection when Atlanta United plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Sunday afternoon.
