The source of Atlanta United’s early struggles has generated a litany of theories, but we can all agree that the team’s performance has simply fallen below standards. With just two wins in six in all competitions, the defending MLS Champions enter the weekend out of CONCACAF Champions League, and winless in the league.
So, what’s the problem? Well, there are a lot of them. But the most alarming part of Atlanta’s struggles has been their listlessness in attack under new manager Frank de Boer.
On paper, it simply doesn’t make sense. Despite losing talisman Miguel Almiron to Newcastle, Atlanta returned one of the league’s best ever goal scorers in Josef Martinez, new signing and Argentinean international Pity Martinez, the uber-talented Ezequiel Barco and the pacey and powerful Tito Villalba.