ATL Standard

Two players headlined Atlanta United's acquisitions during the summer transfer window. Now, after finding their footing in MLS, both have been selected for MLS Team of the Matchday for the first time, the league announced Thursday afternoon.

Pedro Amador, the fullback signed on July 1, made the best XI on the Team of the Matchday. Alexey Miranchuk, the club's marquee addition during the summer transfer window, appeared on the bench for his game-tying goal.

Both players were targets for Atlanta United because they are entering or currently in the prime of their professional soccer careers. The two players showed their quality Wednesday night during Atlanta's come-from-behind draw with Inter Miami CF, currently regarded as one of the best teams in Major League Soccer. Combined, Amador and Miranchuk contributed a goal and an assist for Atlanta United. They were also rated as the two highest performing players for the team on SofaScore.

Since arriving this summer, Amador has logged 359 minutes and started each of his four MLS appearances. He made his club debut during Leagues Cup, quickly integrating into a starting role along Atlanta's backline. The 25-year-old was expected to replace Caleb Wiley, who transferred to Chelsea in the English Premier League. At left fullback, Amador has stepped into Wiley’s role effectively.

Amador earned his first career MLS assist Wednesday night on Atlanta's first goal scored by Saba Lobjanidze. During Wednesday's match against Inter Miami CF, he disrupted several attacks from Miami and ended with four interceptions. He also made a critical block at the goal line that not only prevented Miami from extending their lead but initiated an attack that led to Atlanta’s equalizing goal from Miranchuk.

A few weeks ago in Atlanta’s 1-0 win over Charlotte FC, Amador put together one of the league’s best defensive performances with five tackles and five interceptions. "Pedro specifically, whether he was defending him or defending the box, clearing off the line, he's been fantastic these last two games," interim head coach Rob Valentino said Wednesday night. "That's a person who's integrated into the team really well."

Miranchuk was highlighted as Atlanta United's major acquisition during this summer transfer window. The 28-year-old attacking midfielder arrived from Italy’s Serie A where he played for Atalanta. In three matches with Atlanta United so far, Miranchuk is still adjusting but demonstrated his skill with a crucial goal in the 84th minute against Miami.

"If you compare the leagues in Europe to those in U.S., it's completely different," Miranchuk said. "I can't explain all small details but it's just different—lots of back-to-back games and transitions. I thank my teammates and my coach; they are helping me adjust more and more."