Miguel Almiron, Josef Martinez named to MLS’ Best XI

The honors continue to come in for Atlanta United players. MLS announced its Best XI for the 2017 season, and midfielder Miguel Almiron and striker Josef Martinez found themselves as selections to the team. They join a list of players including Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco, New York City FC’s David Villa and Chicago’s Nemanja Nikolic.

For anyone who’s seen the team at any point in time throughout the season, this should come as no surprise. Almiron’s electrifying play at the 10 was a big part in getting Atlanta to the playoffs in its first year. For Martinez, he only played in 20 games this year as he battled injury, but his presence was noticeable every time he stepped on the field for the team. It didn’t take long for these two to prove they were special players.

The big question is how long both players will remain here in Atlanta - whether the front office gets an offer this winter that’s too good to turn down or if we can expect to see the duo here for at least another year. Whatever happens, it’s clear that Almiron and Martinez have made a strong and lasting mark on the sporting culture of this city.