Predicting Atlanta United’s lineup vs. Philadelphia Union

We can call Wednesday night a win, right? Despite falling short of what would have been a remarkable comeback, Atlanta United were a goal better than visitors Monterrey during the second leg of the teams’ Concacaf Champions League tie. One final match - the Philadelphia Union - awaits before a much-needed break begins.

The big question

Will we see a bit of a change of shape in this one? Atlanta had success when Ezequiel Barco shifted from his wing position in the attack and took on a more central role, tucking in behind Josef Martinez. It shows that at least Frank de Boer is not afraid of adjusting things to help the team regain the form it enjoyed last year - hopefully that mindset carries forward today and throughout the season.

Predicted Atlanta United lineup vs. Philadelphia Union

Formation: 3-4-3

• A couple of changes from Wednesday: Jeff Larentowicz is back in the midfield after being forced to play on the back line due to Leandro Gonzalez Pirez’s inavailability. Also, it’s likely we’ll see Brek Shea at the LWB slot. However, if it’s Mikey Ambrose or George Bello, then that’s a clear sign of Shea moving down the pecking order.
• Interested to see how Atlanta does against the Philadelphia press. It’s traditionally struggled in those situations, so ball control and making proper use of passing channels to attack will be key.

Thoughts? Questions? Let me know in the comments.