ATL Standard

During a recent training session, Atlanta United's players were engaged in various exercises. One notable group, referred to as the "young chaps," included players Luke Brennan, Matt Edwards, Noah Cobb, and Jay Fortune. The practice involved activities like chipping passes into an upturned goal and precise shooting exercises targeting specific areas of the net.

Assistant coach Elliot Parrish provided guidance and emphasized technique throughout the session. Head coach Ronny Deila likens his role to an artist refining a painting: "I have a painting in my head of how the game is going to be, and then you color that painting every day." Deila's approach aims at maintaining effectiveness through constant adjustments.

The role of the No. 10 position continues to be a focal point for Atlanta United. Alexey Miranchuk and Miguel Almirón have both been instrumental in this role, with Miranchuk appreciating the chance to be more offensive and assertive: “I can drive forward. I can look forward." Deila remains flexible regarding player positioning, stating, "We play what we think is the best team... I don’t see that as a big challenge."

The team's attacking play has seen fluctuating results this season. The coach is hopeful that refining touches in attack will lead to increased success: “The last five games, we should have won. We are better than others, but we haven’t been effective enough.”

The team now prepares for a game against the struggling New England Revolution, who are seeking to improve their 13th place standing in the Eastern Conference. New England’s coach, Caleb Porter, seeks more aggression from his side. Deila stresses the importance of Atlanta retaining focus: “We are not in a place that we underestimate anybody or take things easy.”

Saturday's match, marking the end of a three-game homestand, offers Atlanta United the chance to secure seven points from this stint. Encouragement to attend is high, as families are invited to enjoy the match at the scheduled 2:30 p.m. kickoff.