Atlanta United’s starting 11 for Saturday’s season-opening game at Houston:
Goalkeeper Brad Guzan
Right fullback Franco Escobar, making his debut.
Centerback Jeff Larentowicz, the captain.
Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, who looked in midseason form in the preseason.
Left fullback Greg Garza, who appeared in 26 games last season and, for fullbacks, was among the league leaders at creating chances.
Holding midfielder Chris McCann.
Holding midfielder Darlington Nagbe, who was acquired in a trade with Portland in the offseason.
Right midfielder Hector Villalba, who scored 13 goals and notched 11 assists last season. Will be surprised if he plays more than 60-65 minutes because of an abductor injury sustained in the preseason.
Attacking midfielder Julian Gressel, the reigning MLS Rookie of the Year.
Left midfielder Miguel Almiron, who normally plays in the central but will slide to the left in place of the injured Ezequiel Barco.
Striker Josef Martinez, who scored 19 goals in 20 games last season.
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