ATL Standard

Saturday marks a crucial phase for Atlanta United as they embark on a significant road trip, with four of their next five matches away from home. The initial clash is set against the Philadelphia Union, which is currently in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Atlanta United hasn't secured a victory at Subaru Park since July 2018. Head Coach Ronny Deila is emphasizing the need for his team to turn impressive performances into tangible points.

For this trip, Deila is altering the starting lineup. Saba Lobjanidze is being rested, allowing Jay Fortune to fill his position on the left side of the attack. Fortune, known for his precise passing, has a 91 percent completion rate and is aiming to make a significant impact.

Deila has also decided to give Noah Cobb his first start of the season, stepping in for Derrick Williams, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Cobb's inclusion comes with the hope of solidifying the defense against Union.

The attack will be driven by Miguel Almirón and Alexey Miranchuk as Atlanta United seeks to end its ongoing goalscoring dry spell, having been unable to score in open play for over 180 minutes. Deila has emphasized that while strong defense is crucial, effective attacking is what leads to success.

Brooks Lennon is on the cusp of setting a new club record for assists. Currently tied with Julian Gressel at 39 assists for Atlanta United, Lennon is also a significant contributor against the Union, with previous goal contributions. Meanwhile, Miguel Almirón needs just one more goal to move into sole possession of second place for the all-time MLS regular season goals for Atlanta United.

The historical face-offs between Atlanta United and Philadelphia Union are balanced, with each team having comparable outcomes in their MLS regular season history. Both teams ended up drawing their meetings last season, and Atlanta holds a slight edge in goals scored.

The complete lineup for Atlanta United against Philadelphia Union includes: Brad Guzan (C), Brooks Lennon, Stian Gregersen, Noah Cobb, Pedro Amador, Bartosz Slisz, Tristan Muyumba, Alexey Miranchuk, Jay Fortune, Miguel Almirón, and Emmanuel Latte Lath.

Reserves include Josh Cohen, Ronald Hernández, Luis Abram, Matt Edwards, Luke Brennan, Mateusz Klich, Will Reilly, Saba Lobjanidze, and Jamal Thiaré.

Atlanta United is aiming to break new ground in their away match in Philadelphia and intends to start this challenging streak with a positive outcome.