Seven things Atlanta United manager Gerardo Martino discussed on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s game against Chicago at Georgia Tech’s Bobby Dodd Stadium.
1. He learned that even in the rough weather conditions that happened in the 6-1 win at Minnesota United, his team was able to find a comfort level.
2. He wouldn’t say whether Carlos Carmona or Jeff Larentowicz would start on Saturday. Carmona received a red card in the 2-1 loss to the New York Red Bulls and was suspended for the win against Minnesota United. Larentowicz started instead. With either player, Martino said the position is covered.
3. Martino said there is always pressure to win at home, but that the team wants to win at home for its fans. The team lost its first home game and faces a four-game road trip following Saturday’s game.
4. The the team is exploring ways to try to get Carmona (Chile), Josef Martinez (Venezuela) and Miguel Almiron (Paraguay) from their national teams to Seattle for the game scheduled on March 31. He said it's difficult because the team will play on Friday. He said the team will carry more players for the game.
5. Midfielder Julian Gressel, a rookie who has started the first two games, is playing well. He’s smart and generate play.
6. Martino said he didn't want to comment on Greg Garza not being called up to the U.S. men's national team.
7. He was still completing his NCAA tournament bracket. He knows more about the NBA, but also knows Gonzaga has a good team.
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