After a brilliant first season in MLS, Atlanta United FC were considered to be among the favorites to win the Eastern Conference in 2018. But a troubling 4-0 opening day defeat in Houston put a damper on some of that hype. With a potential early season crisis looming, manager Tata Martino went back to the drawing board, making some changes to his lineup and shape for game two against DC United.
The Argentine moved Michael Parkhurst back into the back four in place of Jeff Larentowicz, who in turn moved up to his normal spot at center defensive midfield (CDM).