With 16 matches remaining in the 2025 MLS regular season, Atlanta United finds itself chasing a playoff spot—but the path is still navigable. Head coach Ronny Deila used one of his signature metaphors to describe the mission ahead:
“We have to push that fantastic boat, Atlanta United, that we are a part of forward,” Deila said. “It’s a big, big ship, and you need everybody on board, and we have to go in the same direction.”
Recovery and Reset
Returning to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground after a week-long break, the 5-Stripes showed high energy and renewed morale. The break came at a crucial time, following a heavy first half of the season and just before an intense stretch of 12 matches in July and August—the busiest two-month period of the campaign.
Players approached the time off differently: some rested, while others remained engaged with the game. For players like Brooks Lennon, who had no offseason due to shoulder rehab, this was the first real opportunity to reset.
“It almost breaks up the season in two,” Lennon said. “We’ve come back to training with hard work, new ideas, and high quality.”
On the training pitch, Miguel Almirón stood out, showing sharpness in possession that Deila believes could further unlock Atlanta’s attacking potential.
Road Challenges Ahead
Up next, Atlanta travels to face Columbus Crew on Wednesday, June 25, at Lower.com Field—the third of six consecutive road games. It will also be the first meeting between the teams this season. Columbus, known for their possession-heavy style, currently leads the league in completed passes (9,807) and shares top spot in average possession (59.8%).
Atlanta, a team that also prefers to control possession, may need to adapt. Deila hinted at a more defensive setup with opportunities to strike on the counter.
“Sometimes we have to accept not having 60 or 70 percent of the ball,” Deila said. “We have to suffer together, enjoy defending, and take our chances when they come.”
Fixing Second-Half Woes
A major theme for Deila during the break was addressing second-half struggles—both within matches and the broader season. In the June 12 loss to NYCFC, Atlanta conceded three second-half goals after a strong first 45 minutes.
“I can accept losing, but the way we lose—I can’t accept that,” Deila emphasized. “We were the better team in the first half. Losing 4-0 is unacceptable.”
While fatigue played a role, Deila emphasized mentality over excuses. He has increasingly pushed for accountability and resilience, challenging players to maintain intensity for all 90 minutes.
Building Culture and Raising Standards
Deila is walking the fine line between empathy and expectation. As the pressure builds, he’s leaning harder into the demanding side of leadership, aiming to instill both performance standards and a winning culture.
“It’s about kindness and support, but also standards and demands,” he said. “You don’t go further by just being nice. You have to push each other to get the results we want.”
He also encouraged player ownership—urging them to speak up, challenge norms, and actively contribute to the team’s evolution.
“This is culture, and I’m here to change things, and I will. Everything is about performing. Everything is about, in the end, winning.”
Final Push
With a rested squad, strategic adjustments, and a coach driving urgency, Atlanta United will aim to flip the script in the second half of the season—starting with Wednesday’s road clash in Columbus.
The goal: finish strong, qualify for the playoffs, and redefine Atlanta United’s 2025 story.
