ATL Standard

Atlanta United is facing a challenging start to their 2025 season, securing only nine points across eight matches, and currently sitting at 11th place in the Eastern Conference. Following their recent defeat to New England, frustration is palpable at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground. Players are not disheartened but are determined to overcome the setbacks. Bartosz Slisz shared his perspective, saying, "If you lose and you don't [get frustrated], I think something is wrong with you," reflecting the determination to turn the season around.

Despite being three points behind a Wild Card playoff spot occupied by New York Red Bulls, Atlanta United remains optimistic about reaching a top-four position in the conference. Slisz emphasizes that patience and persistence will eventually yield results, "It's just the process, and the results will come. We have to believe it."

Head coach Ronny Deila has numerous options at his disposal, contemplating whether players like Miguel Almirón and Alexey Miranchuk provide the right midfield combination. In a recent match against NYCFC, Atlanta showed promise but failed to convert opportunities, outshooting New England 12-2 in the second half. Deila is focused on tactical adjustments and fostering a mentality shift to bring more aggression to the games. Slisz highlighted the need for a competitive atmosphere in practice: "You need it even in the training, because I think it's going to help the team. We are too nice. We have to be more aggressive and show on the pitch that [if] they’re going to come to our stadium, our home, they will not win on this day."

There has been a focus on tactical drills such as rondos and pass sequencing to maintain ball possession, a fundamental of Deila's system. Atlanta United has improved their possession stats in the last two matches, which Slisz commented on, "Every week speak about our style of play, and we analyze the games, and it doesn't look bad."

The squad may soon get a boost as Edwin Mosquera returns to training, recovering from an ankle injury. His recent performances in practice suggest a near-complete recovery.

Atlanta United now prepares for upcoming road matches against Philadelphia Union and Orlando City SC, with an eye on improving their away record. Slisz noted the significance of these fixtures, "Philadelphia will be a tough game, and we have to just focus on it."