Miles Robinson, George Bello, Brad Guzan named to USMNT provisional Gold Cup roster

Atlanta United’s depth may be tested once again this summer with Miles Robinson, George Bello, and Brad Guzan being named to the official USMNT provisional roster for the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The Gold Cup will last from July 10-August 1 with a likely 1-2 week training camp expected for players selected to the final tournament roster.

While this provisional roster does not guarantee these players’ inclusion on the final 25-man tournament roster, it does point to the reality that Atlanta United may lose at least one more player to international duty this summer.

Miles Robinson looks to be the most likely player to depart the club in July with his competition including Erik Palmer-Brown, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Justin Che, Auston Trusty, and Walker Zimmerman. This would be an excellent opportunity for Robinson to showcase his continued growth as one of the top current American central defenders. In Robinson’s absence, the club will require Alan Franco and Anton Walkes to build some quick chemistry to replace what has been an impressive central defensive duo. George Campbell will also need to step up as the primary backup in case of injury or fatigue.

George Bello seems to face a strong battle between a very young but talented group of left-backs led by Sam Vines, but the battle for right-back between Reggie Cannon, Shaq Moore, and Julian Araujo may be even more interesting to watch.

Brad Guzan is the most senior of the five goalkeepers named. This group could go any number of ways with Bill Hamid, Sean Johnson, Matt Turner, and Tim Melia all logging minutes previously for the national team. If Guzan does depart the club for international duty, Alec Kann has played at a high level for the 2s in his last few starts and could serve as a capable shot-stopping option but with more limited distribution from the position.

Congratulations to Robinson, Bello, and Guzan!