Predicting Atlanta United’s starting XI vs Inter Miami

Atlanta United lost Saturday night at home to the New York Red Bulls. It was a controversial game, but the same problems continue to haunt Atlanta: little-to-no goalscoring chances were created by the Five Stripes.

But the xG admittedly doesn’t tell the whole story. Atlanta played well the first half between the boxes, with new boy Marcelino Moreno showing flashes of what he can contribute to this team.

Atlanta United starting XI vs. New York Red Bulls:

Atlanta United needs to start playing better in the final third and creating more chances if they want the three points vs. Inter Miami. Atlanta has not beaten the MLS debutants yet, and a win today can help this team gain momentum. A loss, on the other hand, could prove crippling.

My predicted starting XI vs. Inter Miami:

Defense:

The defense the last couple of matches has been sharp. Anton Walkes form of recent has given Glass the reason to start him over Fernando Meza. The problem is Franco Escobar played an incredible game as a center back on Saturday night, but with Miles Robinson coming back from suspension, where does that leave him? Brooks Lennon looked overwhelmingly uncomfortable as a full-back against Red Bulls. Lennon prefers to be played higher up, but Glass is pretty stuck on his 4-3-3, so changing it just to fit Escobar as a center-back doesn’t seem likely.

Midfield:

Marcelino Moreno made his debut against the NYRB Saturday night and left a good impression on teammates, coaches, and fans. Not fit enough to make a true impact, he played well, giving Atlanta fans hope for the future. Since Moreno isn’t quite there yet regarding fitness, it’s up to Emerson Hyndman to help him and be another creative outlet for Atlanta United.

Attack:

Adam Jahn seems like the perfect fit for this game against Inter Miami. Miami’s backline is physical, so having a strong and tall striker like Jahn can create space for Jon Gallagher, Lennon, and Moreno.

Wildcard Formation:

Like I said before, Escobar played a great game as a center back, and with the lack of positive results, is it time for a change in formation?

Let us know your predictions!