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Opinion piece written by Twitter/X user JonathanATLUTD
How will Atlanta United’s 2025 season turn out? Several factors will influence the outcome of their season, including the new Sporting Director, Chris Henderson, and Head Coach, Ronny Deila. Additionally, the team has made significant signings, such as Mateusz Klich and Cayman Togashi, along with two designated player signings: Miguel Almirón and Emmanuel Latte Lath. These additions are shaping Atlanta United’s future, and we’ll explore how their season may unfold and the factors that could impact it.
First, let’s focus on Ronny Deila and what he may bring this season. Deila’s playstyle is characterized by an offensive, attack-minded approach, as well as a dominant home presence. He favors an aggressive high press, which actively involves midfielders in the attack. Early observations from the preseason games indicate that Deila wants his team to adopt an aggressive strategy and play at a faster pace. He aims to enhance central play, ensuring that creative players like Alexey Miranchuk and Mateusz Klich. It’s clear that Ronny Deila will positively impact the Atlanta United players and their style of play. The team is still adjusting to Deila’s coaching approach, and it will be exciting to see how this unfolds throughout the season.
Next, we will examine Atlanta United’s new players and what they may bring to the team. We will start with Cayman Togashi. With this signing, Atlanta United aimed to strengthen the depth at the striker position, especially after Daniel Rios left at the end of last season. Relying solely on Jamal Thiare isn’t sufficient; while I like him, he is not a starting striker. From the first preseason games, it’s evident that Togashi is a hard worker who consistently fights for the ball. It will be interesting to see the competition between Thiare and Togashi for the backup striker role.
Now lets switch our attention to Mateusz Klich. Atlanta basically stole Mateusz Klich from DC United, we traded the No. 23 overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft to D.C. for him and D.C. will retain most of Klich’s budget charge for the 2025 season, as well as his Designated Player status. But as we shift the focus from what a good deal we got for him we start to realize how good of a player he actually is. He is a Polish International which I’m assuming will accommodate nicely with Bartosz Slisz as he is also Polish and they should be able to communicate easily. He’s a good chance creator, while also being able to dictate the tempo of a game from the middle of the pitch. It will be cool to see how he and Slisz will play together.
Next, we will take a look at Atlanta United’s new Designated Player (DP) signings. We will start with Miguel Almirón. His playstyle is characterized by speed, aggression, and a pressing approach, which aligns perfectly with how Ronny Deila wants his team to play. Almirón is known for his quickness, hard work, and the energy he brings to the group. He has a passionate love for the game and is recognized as a humble leader. Over six seasons at Newcastle, he made 186 appearances in the English Premier League, scoring 23 goals and providing six assists. It will be exciting to see him play for Atlanta United again.
Now, let’s shift our focus to Emmanuel Latte Lath. The Ivory Coast international is recognized for his speed as well. He’s a forward with excellent pace and a strong instinct for goal-scoring. He will be a crucial asset for Atlanta United this season and is expected to net a significant number of goals. This signing caps off what is considered the biggest offseason in Atlanta United’s history, highlighting the arrival of both Miguel Almirón and Latte Lath with a total cost of $32M.
As Atlanta United looks ahead to the 2025 season, the signings made during the offseason begins a new chapter for the club. With a blend of experienced talent and promising newcomers, the team is poised to enhance its competitive edge in the league. The coaching staff’s vision, combined with the players’ determination, suggests that Atlanta United not only seeks to reclaim its status as a playoff contender but also aims to capture the coveted MLS Cup. Fans can expect an exhilarating season filled with thrilling matches and the hope that these signings will lead to a resurgence in form that rekindles the passion and pride of Atlanta’s soccer community.
I think you have a big unkown, the coach. Almiron now should get the 10 jersey, and boss the team, as his passing, and timing are wonderful.
Just because he hasn’t done anything related to South America doesn’t mean Deila is unknown. There’s plenty of examples of him being successful in the northern hemisphere. I’d argue that strictly as a manager, he’s the most proven and successful coach we had other than Tata.
it took the entire window, and there were definitely a few misses. but in the end, garth has put together (on paper) the best roster we’ve had in quite a few years. there is an encouraging mix of youth, veterans, speed, toughness…as well as the star quality from miggy’s homecoming. i can’t type that last part without a smile on my face…
i really think it will take 6-8 weeks of the season for us to understand what kind of team we have and what kind of success we can expect in this first year with deila. but i give garth a B+/A- on the transfer window, and am hopeful that deila’s style of play will inject some life back into this club!
and as much as anything, i am looking forward to seeing how jay, reilly, brennan, choi, edwards noah, torres and morales develop as the season moves forward.
oh…and please please please let hibbert be the real deal! i would love for him to be clear number 2 by the allstar break. not predicting it…but i would sure love to see us actually develop one of these countless young keepers that keep floating thru our ranks.
I watched a few minutes here and there from the preseason matchup with NE and saw glimpses of Delia’s aggressive style of play. For most of the game, we were in NE’s half. Almiron doing his “pass me the ball here” I always liked because it took some of the pressure of the midfielders and ensured their passing was accurate. Having Alexey & Almiron do this along with Saba will help keep that ball forward and in control. I also liked that the forwards were constantly keeping the CB’s on their toes. No more just standing around but more deliberate movements.
Still saw a bit of passing back, which has always frustrated me, though I understand there are times when it is needed. But Alexey roaming around, Almiron and Saba switching things up, Cayman switching things up…when things aren’t working you have to find what does work. Our 21-22 teams were just waiting for things to happen…this team looks to be looking for ways to make things happen and that’s good football.
Our first game couldn’t get here sooner…i’m excited.
Yes I agree