Predicting Atlanta United’s 11 vs. Philadelphia

March 11, 2018 Atlanta: Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron and forward Josef Martinez celebrate Almironâs goal against D.C. United for a 2-0 lead during the second half in a MLS soccer match on Sunday, March 11, 2018, in Atlanta. Martinez scored the first goal of the game on the way to a 3-1 victory in the home opener. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

By Doug Roberson

June 1, 2018

Who will start for Atlanta United when it hosts Philadelphia on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium?

I think you will see just one change from the roster that I accurately predicted would start Wednesday’s game at New England. That change is Leandro Gonzalez Pirez in, back from his one-game suspension, and Franco Escobar out. I think Escobar is out because he will pair with Miles Robinson as centerbacks for the team in Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup game against Charleston at Kennesaw State.

Here’s my predicted 11:

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan.

Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez.

Centerback Michael Parkhurst, the team’s captain.

Centerback Chris McCann.

Right wingback Julian Gressel.

Left wingback Mikey Ambrose.

Holding midfielder Jeff Larentowicz.

Midfielder Darlington Nagbe.

Attacking midfielder Miguel Almiron.

Striker Ezequiel Barco.

Striker Josef Martinez.