Will Ezequiel Barco be in Atlanta United’s (4-1-0) starting 11 for Sunday’s game against NYCFC (5-0-1) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium?
I think he will.
Will manager Gerardo Martino continue to use the 3-5-2 formation the team has used during its four-game winning streak?
I think he will.
Will Hector Villalba play?
I don’t think he will.
So, here’s what I think you’ll see
Goalkeeper: Brad Guzan, who has led a defense that has posted two consecutive shutouts.
Right wingback: Julian Gressel, who has owned this position in the past four games. He had a goal and an assist in last week’s 5-0 win against LAFC.
Centerback: Miles Robinson, who will make his second start. If he doesn’t, it’ll be Chris McCann.
Centerback: Michael Parkhurst, the team’s captain.
Centerback: Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, who is back after serving a one-game suspension.
Left wingback: Greg Garza, who will return after missing last week’s game because of a shoulder injury.
Holding midfielder: Jeff Larentowicz, who will have a big challenge in not letting David Villa (assuming he starts) get a head of steam.
Midfielder: Darlington Nagbe.
Attacking midfielder: Miguel Almiron, who scored two goals, both on penalty kicks, last week.
Striker: Ezequiel Barco, who I think will make his MLS debut. He suffered a quad strain during training the week of the season-opening loss at Houston that has prevented him from playing
Striker: Josef Martinez, who has five goals in five games. He will likely play with some sort of wrap or brace on his left hand after suffering an injury during Wednesday’s training session.
About the Author
