Jayden Hibbert’s stock continues to rise for Atlanta United.
Six days after his first MLS start, a 0-0 draw against Toronto FC, Hibbert backstopped another clean sheet with seven saves in Atlanta’s 1-0 win over Nashville SC on Saturday night.
For an organization that’s looking for a succession plan in goal for 2026 and beyond, Hibbert’s continued to give the front office something to think about.
“Tremendously,” the 21-year-old said when asked how he has grown over Atlanta’s past two matches. “Bar the last two matches, but the last two months … I’ve been getting looks and feeling good, feeling that position.”
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Hibbert’s “decision making” key to his evolution
Hibbert mentioned “decision making, by far” as what he has been able to improve the most since arriving to Atlanta.
That came into play in the 51st minute.
After having an equalizer late in the first half disallowed after VAR ruled he had committed a handball violation, Sam Surridge had another opportunity to find the net in the second half as he was sprung on a 1v1 against Hibbert. But his resulting shot struck the crossbar in another massive let-off for Atlanta.
“Coming out of the box, two months ago, I’d probably come and try to kill Surridge and get a red card or something like that, you know?” Hibbert laughed.
His best work, though, came later in the half, as he erased two massive opportunities by Hany Mukhtar, one on a point-blank shot right in front of goal and the second coming on a near-post effort that Hibbert turned aside to maintain Atlanta’s lead.
“I think Jayden was fantastic,” Deila said. “He had three, four, saves that really held us into the game. …
“He is so dynamic. He’s reading the game very well. He’s good with his feet. … Now I think it’s four games that we’ve conceded two goals (and) when you see our average, it’s a fantastic improvement.”
A spell with the CanMNT next
Atlanta United is off until September 13, when they welcome the Columbus Crew to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
There won’t be any rest for Hibbert, though, who will be with the Canadian men’s national team for friendlies in Romania (September 5) and Wales (September 9). It’s just another highlight of what’s been an eventful last few weeks.
“People are pushing me, and teammates are pushing me,” Hibbert said. “It’s huge for my confidence and for my development, going forward as a goalkeeper here.”
I just watched the replay since I’m overseas but I wouldn’t say he was fantastic, just good. His footwork makes me feel a lot better than Guz’s. We were very lucky to keep a clean sheet but a win is a win and I’ll take it. Our defense looked shaky at times but the ball was moving smoothly through the midfield which has been a problem for us.
I agree. I know people want a glimmer of hope in a sea of despair and he’s showing he’s capable of playing at a high level but I would say this was a good showing for him and more a fantastic showing for the midfield.
Definitely the starting keeper next year (and hopefully beyond)