Who will start for Atlanta United in Wednesday’s Champions League quarterfinal game against Club America at Estadio Azteca? The game will be broadcast on FS2.
Doug Roberson (@dougrobersonajc) of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution takes a crack at predicting the first 11 for the Five Stripes.
Because of injuries and a game plan to try to manage the result, I think you will see a formation switch from three in the back to four in the back as part of a 4-4-1-1. Miles Robinson, Laurence Wyke and Franco Escobar are not available.
Goalkeeper Brad Guzan
Right fullback Brooks Lennon
Centerback Anton Walkes
Centerback Fernando Meza
Left fullback George Bello, who will make his season debut. It's a tough ask, but his speed is such that he can recover if he makes mistakes and provide a threat going forward should Atlanta United get a counterattack.
Defensive midfielder Jeff Larentowicz, who will start in place of Eric Remedi. Larentowicz will likely play almost as a third centerback.
Central midfielder Emerson Hyndman, who is tied for the team lead in goals (2) in league play.
Right midfielder Jake Mulraney, who will switch from left to right. He is naturally right-footed.
Left midfielder Ezequiel Barco, who is tied for the team lead in goals (2).
Attacking midfielder Pity Martinez, who had two assists in the win against Cincinnati.
Striker Adam Jahn, who will make his second consecutive start because a target man will be needed to relieve pressure. Jahn is good in the air and strong enough to play with his back to the goal.
Some of you very much want Matheus Rossetto and Manuel Castro in the starting 11. I understand your desire but don’t see where they fit yet because the players at their positions are performing well. I do think you will see them start Saturday’s game against Sporting KC.
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