The consistent answer given by Atlanta United’s players when asked how the team will overcome the potential absence of Miguel Almiron is that everyone will need to work a little harder.
“He’s one of the best player sin the league,” team captain Michael Parkhurst said. “Everyone has to step up their game. It’s not just one guy. You can’t just replace Miguel with one guy. It’s too big of shoes to fill.”
Almiron, who suffered a strained hamstring two weeks ago in a win against New England, may miss Sunday's pivotal game against Chicago at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Supporters' Shield will be Atlanta United's should it win and the New York Red Bulls lose to Philadelphia.
To improve the probability of Atlanta United winning, two players who may need to put in extra work in Almiron’s expected absence are Darlington Nagbe and Eric Remedi, who will likely be working the middle of the pitch that Almiron typically played as an attacking midfielder while racking up 12 goals and 14 assists this season.
“For me and Eric, can we push up a little bit more when needed, especially me, and try to contribute more in attack?” Nagbe said.
Manager Gerardo Martino has choices to replace Almiron. He subbed in Ezequiel Barco against New England when Almiron left in the 30th minute. The Argentine would seem to be the most natural replacement based upon skill set. Using him would enable Martino to limit shuffling the lineup too much. Should Barco sub in for Almiron, Nagbe could continue to play as a traditional midfielder, serving as a bridge between offense and defense, and Remedi could continue to play as a defensive midfielder, shielding the back line and breaking up possible counterattacks from a strong Chicago midfield.
“We are hoping we can replace him with some other guys and try to feel his absence as little as we can,” Remedi said.
Nagbe’s and Remedi’s skills best replicate what Almiron brings to Atlanta United. Like Almiron, Nagbe is a good passer and is very good at receiving the ball under pressure and either finding a teammate, or dribbling out and away. While Nagbe can score, he hasn’t been in position to do so too frequently this season because of his position and role as a distributor.
While Nagbe can add a little offense to his game to help cover Almiron’s absence, the Paraguayan’s defense is an underrated. Remedi’s defense is his strong suit. Once he wins the ball, he is typically an accurate passer so that opponent’s attacks don’t restart after a turnover. He may need to stay back a little bit more to make sure that the defense keeps a good shape.
Nagbe and Remedi have formed a good partnership since the former’s return from an adductor injury five games ago. The team is 3-1-0 with seven goals for and two against with both starting.
“He’s another player who is good on the ball and helps my game out,” Nagbe said.
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