Wednesday’s training at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground felt like a marathon—but with a purpose. Head coach Ronny Deila pushed his squad through a grueling two-hour session, and it’s clear why. Sunday Night Soccer, presented by Continental Tire, brings the defending Supporters’ Shield winners, Inter Miami, to town, and Atlanta United is ready to rise to the occasion.
Deila has emphasized intensity in training, and the players have bought in. They know their second-half performances need sharpening, especially after last weekend’s draw against the New York Red Bulls. The first half showcased the squad’s quality, but the second half? Not as convincing. With Miami, Cincinnati, and NYCFC looming, Atlanta United is focused on piecing it all together for a strong run in the Eastern Conference.
Reinforcements Arriving: Amador and Lennon Back in Action
There’s good news for the 5-Stripes faithful. Key fullbacks Pedro Amador and Brooks Lennon, both sidelined at the start of the season, could finally take the pitch together on Sunday. Amador played a full 90 against Red Bulls, delivering a rock-solid defensive performance while still pushing forward in attack.
“I’m an attacking player, so of course I love to go forward,” Amador said. “But defending is the priority. Still, in this system, overlapping and creating those 2v1 situations is huge.”
That’s music to Deila’s ears. His system relies on dynamic fullbacks, and having both Amador and Lennon available would be a game-changer. Lennon, who suffered a shoulder injury in last year’s Eastern Conference semifinals, has been back in full training and is eager to return.
“We put together a rehab plan from day one,” Lennon said. “I wanted to get back quicker than expected, and I’m proud of how I attacked it. Now, I feel 100%, ready to roll.”
The 17s will be thrilled to see their ironman back on the pitch, but Matt Edwards has stepped up in Lennon’s absence, meaning there’s still a chance Lennon could ease in off the bench. Either way, his leadership and experience are already setting the tone in training.
Building the Attack: Finding the Right Balance
Deila is never one to settle, and after the Red Bulls match, he pointed out one key issue: Atlanta United was forcing the final pass too quickly, rather than patiently building up play. That’s something they’ve been honing on the training ground.
“It’s about knowing when to be patient and when to push forward,” Amador explained. “There are moments to hold possession and involve more players before attacking.”
To reinforce this, Deila implemented horizontal passing drills, encouraging the team to stretch the field. It paid off against Red Bulls, opening space for fullbacks to overlap and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. Lennon is eager to be part of that action again.
“We studied film this morning and saw the spaces we created,” Lennon said. “I can’t wait to get back and whip in some dangerous balls. Hopefully, I’ll rack up some assists.”
Eyes on the Prize: Sunday’s Clash with Miami
The training session wrapped up with dynamic finishing drills for the forwards and strategic buildup exercises for the midfield and defense. Will Reilly made his presence known with a well-taken goal, pushing his case for more minutes.
Despite going scoreless in the last two matches, the 5-Stripes aren’t panicking—they’re creating chances, and now it’s about converting them.
“We haven’t scored, but the opportunities are there,” Amador said. “I’d be more worried if we weren’t creating. Now, we just need that final touch.”
With a packed Mercedes-Benz Stadium expected Sunday night, the stage is set. Atlanta United is primed to bring the energy, the intensity, and most importantly—the fight. Inter Miami, you’ve been warned.
