Atlanta United finds itself at a crossroads as they prepare for a critical match against Philadelphia this Saturday. Head Coach Ronnie Deila has indicated that while he recognizes the team’s struggles, he will not implement drastic changes to the lineup in an effort to maintain consistency.
Deila expressed the frustration of not achieving the desired results, stating, “When you’re losing football games, then you look for answers… we are not happy. It’s not a nice feeling for anybody of us.” The team’s current form includes a minus-9 goal difference, with victories against only Montreal and NYCFC, teams at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. Notably, Atlanta United has yet to win any of its five away matches.
Midfielder Tristan Muyumba noted the importance of teamwork during this challenging period, insisting every player on the roster will play a crucial role. He emphasized that the upcoming matches are opportunities for players to demonstrate their abilities, with the ultimate goal being to secure victories.
In previous games, Deila has experimented with his lineup, most recently adjusting the positions of players like Miguel Almiron and Alexey Miranchuk. However, these strategies have yet to yield positive results, as seen in the recent matches against Nashville and Chicago where the team struggled offensively. Atlanta’s goal tally from open play has been alarmingly low, with just nine goals scored.
Looking ahead, changes may be imminent as injuries affect the roster. Wingbacks Brooks Lennon and Pedro Amador are facing fitness issues, potentially opening the door for substitutes to step into starting roles. Deila is likely to retain key players such as Miranchuk, Almiron, and Emmanuel Latte Lath for their attacking capabilities while emphasizing the need for accountability within the team.
Despite the challenges, Deila remains optimistic. “There’s no place to hide,” he stated, urging the team to demonstrate their capabilities on the pitch. With half the season still ahead, he believes consistency and confidence could lead to a turnaround, starting with the match against Philadelphia.
As Atlanta United seeks to regain momentum, fans can stay updated on the team’s journey and developments in the league. The spirit of resilience remains essential as they aim for renewed success on the field.