Atlanta United’s starting 11 for Sunday’s game against NYCFC in Yankee Stadium in the first leg of the MLS Eastern Conference semifinal series:

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who made a franchise-record nine saves in the previous game here.

Fullback Franco Escobar, who can’t get caught up field.

Centerback Michael Parkhurst, the team’s captain.

Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, he must keep his cool and play in control.

Fullback Greg Garza, who will make his first start since sustaining a shoulder injury that required surgery in late May.

Midfielder Jeff Larentowicz, whose passing must be precise.

Midfielder Eric Remedi, who will try to clog the passing lanes. His passing must be precise.

Midfielder Darlington Nagbe, who will try to turn defense into offense.

Midfielder Julian Gressel, who has 14 assists.

Midfielder Miguel Almiron, making his return from a strained hamstring that sidelined him for the past two games. He has 12 goals and 14 assists this season.

Striker Josef Martinez, who led MLS with 31 goals this season.

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One of Gerardo Martino's (center) challenges in his return as Atlanta United manager will be to help Miguel Almirón (center left), who he managed in Atlanta in 2017-18, rediscover his form after a disappointing 2025 season. Almirón had six goals and seven assists in 31 games after returning to the Five Stripes. (Miguel Martinez/AJC 2017)

Credit: Miguel Martinez

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Travelers walk around the baggage claim in the South Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. Atlanta is among the airports where the FAA will reduce flights due to the shutdown, and airports are facing a shortage of air traffic controllers. 
(Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez