Atlanta United is finally ready to welcome the 17s back to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but the 5-Stripes will have to navigate several absences when they face Red Bull New York on Saturday night.
After 98 days away from home, Atlanta returns to the Benz at 7:30 p.m. ET with new faces available, key players returning and a handful of roster questions still hanging over the squad.
The matchup comes at an important point in the season as Tata Martino’s team looks to turn around a difficult run of form and reconnect with its supporters.
RELATED: Atlanta United Returns Home After 98-Day Wait as Red Bulls Visit Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Jay Fortune Ruled Out With Hamstring Injury
Atlanta will be without midfielder Jay Fortune, who suffered a hamstring injury during training this week.
Martino confirmed Friday that Fortune’s latest injury affects the opposite leg from the hamstring issue that sidelined him earlier this summer. The setback means Fortune will miss the club’s long-awaited return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Will Reilly is another midfield question mark. The Homegrown player suffered an ankle injury in training and is listed as questionable for Saturday’s match.
With Atlanta facing an aggressive Red Bulls side, the availability of its midfield options could be particularly important.
RELATED: Atlanta United’s Homegrown Talent Continues to Rise
Suspension and Visa Issues Also Affect Atlanta’s Squad
Atlanta will also be without defender Enea Mihaj, who must serve a one-match suspension after receiving a red card against Philadelphia Union on Aug. 1.
New signing Mauricio Amaro is unavailable for a different reason. The Uruguayan midfielder is still completing the visa process following his move from Defensor Sporting Club and will have to wait before making his Atlanta United debut.
That leaves Atlanta with some important roster decisions to make, particularly in midfield and defense.
There is, however, positive news for the back line.
Paulo DÃaz has now received his visa and is eligible for selection for the first time since joining the 5-Stripes. His availability could potentially pave the way for his Atlanta debut alongside fellow new defensive addition Júnior Alonso.
RELATED: Atlanta United Signs Mauricio Amaro to Bolster Midfield
Community Spotlight: Taking Care of the Details Before They Become Bigger Problems
Atlanta United’s availability report shows just how quickly circumstances can change. Injuries, suspensions and administrative issues can force a team to adjust its plans, making preparation and having reliable options especially important during a demanding stretch of the season.
Homeowners face a similar challenge when it comes to maintaining their properties. Home Partners Pro provides homeowners with professional repair and maintenance services, helping tackle the everyday issues that can otherwise become bigger problems when left unattended. From plumbing and drywall repairs to doors, windows and other home projects, Home Partners Pro offers a convenient way for homeowners to get important work handled by experienced professionals.
Have a home repair you’ve been putting off? Learn more about Home Partners Pro and its home repair and maintenance services at Home Partners Pro
Steven Alzate Available as Paulo DÃaz Prepares for Possible Debut
One of the more encouraging developments is the expected availability of Steven Alzate.
Martino previously said Alzate had been away from the squad while dealing with an injury and working through green card logistics. He is now available as Atlanta prepares for its first home match since the FIFA World Cup break.
DÃaz’s return to the selection pool could be even more significant.
The Chilean defender brings extensive South American experience to a defense that has conceded multiple goals in each of Atlanta’s last three matches. His potential debut gives Martino another experienced option as the 5-Stripes attempt to tighten things up against a dangerous New York attack.
RELATED: Atlanta United’s New Defensive Additions Could Transform the Back Line
What This Means for Atlanta United
Atlanta United isn’t entering Saturday’s homecoming at full strength, but the club does have some important reinforcements available.
Fortune and Mihaj will be unavailable, Reilly remains a question mark and Amaro will have to wait for his debut. At the same time, Alzate is available and DÃaz could finally make his first appearance for the 5-Stripes.
That makes Saturday’s lineup especially intriguing.
After 98 days away, Atlanta isn’t just returning to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The club is trying to reset its season in front of the 17s, and getting the balance right with the available roster could be the first step toward doing it.
Atlanta United Availability Report — Aug. 14
OUT
- Mauricio Amaro — Visa process
- Jay Fortune — Hamstring
- Enea Mihaj — Red card suspension
QUESTIONABLE
- Will Reilly — Ankle
AVAILABLE
- Paulo DÃaz — Eligible following visa approval
- Steven Alzate — Available for selection
What’s Next?
Atlanta United hosts Red Bull New York on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 7:30 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
After nearly 100 days without a home match, the 17s finally get their team back.
And with a playoff push ahead, Atlanta needs the reunion to be more than just a celebration—it needs to be the beginning of a turnaround.
What lineup would you like to see Tata Martino use against the Red Bulls? Share your thoughts with Atlanta soccer fans in the comments.
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.