Atlanta United Final Exams: Eric Remedi

Eric Remedi

Position: Midfielder

Games Played: 18 appearances, 17 starts

Goals: 1

Assists: 2

The sudden departure of Carlos Carmona ahead of the 2018 season left a rather sizable hole in the form of a mobile holding midfielder on the roster. While Jeff Larentowicz has performed remarkably well in that spot in his time in Atlanta, it’s no secret that he’s getting older and less mobile. Remedi’s arrival in the summer changed the whole complexion of the Five Stripes’ midfield and ultimately played a huge part in the team lifting MLS Cup.

What went right this season: It’s rare that a new acquisition comes in and immediately fits into the lineup flawlessly. That’s exactly what happened with Remedi and it came at the perfect time just as Darlington Nagbe went down with a long term injury. The Argentine stepped in and was fantastic from his first appearance. When Nagbe returned late in the season, the two formed one of the most well-rounded duos in the league. Remedi isn’t a huge goal threat or a dangerous playmaker, but as he showed in one of the biggest games of the playoffs at Yankee Stadium, he can be a big difference maker.

What he needs to improve on: It’s nitpicking, but as always it’d be nice to see your star defensive midfielder show a little bit more discipline. However, it’s a fine line to ask a player who is tasked with stopping the other team’s best players to slow down and take it easy. Remedi is so good because he’s fearless in the tackle and relentless in pursuit of regaining possession. Sometimes you have to take the occasional recklessness that comes with that.

What role will he play in 2019: More of the same please. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, he’ll be right alongside Nagbe again, this time with a half season’s worth of chemistry under their belts. They should form the best defensive midfield pairing in all of MLS.

Grade: A