Emerson Hyndman out for the year with torn ACL

Atlanta United announced today that midfielder Emerson Hyndman suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during training. The club said Hyndman will undergo surgery on a date to be determined to begin the rehabilitation process.

It’s safe to say that Hyndman will miss the remainder of the season and likely a good chunk of next year.

Hyndman was a key player under new manager Gabriel Heinze. The Texas native has started all seven MLS matches so far this season, and has only missed nine minutes of action in total.

Losing a such a core player could potentially see a change in tactics, but will obviously open up opportunities for others in what is a thin group of central midfielders on the roster. Franco Ibarra is most likely to take his place, but a more experienced Mo Adams will also be returning to the side soon after undergoing surgery for a sports hernia prior to the start of the season.