Atlanta United are getting back to business back where it all began.
The Five Stripes take on MLS Next Pro side Chattanooga FC this afternoon in a 3 P.M. friendly match to kick off the preseason slate of games before the MLS season arrives in less than a month’s time on February 22nd. This match will be the first for Atlanta’s newest manager Ronny Deila to see his squad in action and begin to lay the tactical groundwork for a long season ahead.
It’ll be the fourth time these two sides have played each other, and Atlanta’s third time travelling to Finley Stadium to start the year against Chattanooga. The two sides first met for Atlanta United’s first ever organized match in the buildup to the inaugural 2017 season, and last met to start preseason preparations in 2023, where Chattanooga FC blitzed a disorganized Atlanta defense to earn a 3-3 draw.
It’s worth pointing out that Deila noted that he is focused on “tasks, not results” in the leadup to the match, which is a good remember to not put too much stake into the scoreline for these matches. However, that scoreline can underline some pretty significant factors- ahem, defense in 2023- that *will* need some attention.
The match will consist of your typical two 45-minute halves, with most likely one group of mainly starters and another of depth pieces and developing players. We’ll learn just how much Deila has managed to put his fingerprint on the squad in their short time together, his preferred tactical shape and player positionings, and the general vibe of the team together as they prepare for a 2025 season sure to hold lofty expectations.
Atlanta United’s Lineup:
Chattanooga FC’s Lineup:
How to Watch:
Venue: Finley Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Kickoff Time: Saturday, January 25th; 3:00 PM ET
Available TV/Streaming: atlutd.com/live, ATLUTD on YouTube
Available Radio: 92.9 The Game
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I know it’s the first game and they’re tinkering, but this was the same sloppy defense we had all last year.
Goodness! Defense has become optional. A lot of work to do
Realize this is the first preseason match, but our play has been very sloppy.
Any info on where Amador and Williams are? Injury, paperwork?
Looking at the pre-match roster and starting 11, this is how I think we will line up:
1st Half
—Silva — Thiare — Brennan–
———– Miranchuk ———
——- Muyumba — Klich ——
DCQ — Abram — Cobb — Edwards
————– Guzan —————–
2nd Half
Mosquera – Togashi — Saba–
——- Fortune — Reilly ——
—————-Slisz —————–
RH — Morales — Stian — Wynne
————– Cohen —————–
I’m very excited to see 3 current/future homegrown players in the 1st half backline, and I’m very excited about a Fortune/Reilly double 8 tandem in the second half midfield.
Let’s do this!