Atlanta United is searching for answers after a difficult stretch on the road, and according to the players, those answers aren’t just being found on the training pitch—they’re also coming on the golf course.
As the Five Stripes prepare for Saturday night’s Eastern Conference showdown with the Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park (7:30 p.m. ET), the focus has shifted toward strengthening chemistry, improving mentality, and embracing veteran leadership in hopes of reigniting their playoff push.
With Atlanta looking to complete a season sweep of Philadelphia after a 3-1 victory earlier this year, the club believes its biggest improvement may come from within.
Golf Helping Build Atlanta United’s Mental Edge
For defender Matt Edwards, golf has become more than just a hobby.
The young fullback says the sport has helped him improve concentration, stay composed under pressure, and develop the mental discipline required to compete at the MLS level.
Following last weekend’s disappointing defeat in New England, Edwards emphasized that clearing the mind and maintaining focus will be essential as Atlanta attempts to quickly move forward.
Several teammates—including Will Reilly, Jayden Hibbert, Luke Brennan, Adrian Gill, and veteran Fafa Picault—have turned regular golf outings into opportunities to build stronger relationships away from soccer.
The bonding has become especially valuable during a challenging stretch of the season.
Veteran Fafa Picault Driving Atlanta’s Locker Room Culture
If there’s one player helping guide Atlanta’s younger core, it’s Fafa Picault.
The experienced winger has embraced the role of mentor, earning the nickname “Unc” from his younger teammates while helping establish higher standards throughout the squad.
Edwards credited Picault for constantly challenging teammates to improve, holding players accountable, and sharing lessons learned during his decade-long MLS career.
Picault believes success starts long before kickoff.
He stressed that competitive habits throughout the week—from training sessions to everyday preparation—create the mentality necessary to win matches when the weekend arrives.
That leadership has become increasingly important as Atlanta continues relying on several young Homegrown players throughout the season.
Tactical Flexibility Continues Up Front
Picault has also taken on a different role under head coach Tata Martino.
After spending most of his MLS career on the wing, Picault has recently been deployed as Atlanta’s central striker.
The veteran said he’s comfortable playing as a No. 9 and believes additional time in the position will improve chemistry with teammates while creating more opportunities for both himself and Atlanta’s attacking midfielders.
Martino has continued experimenting with different attacking combinations as the Five Stripes search for greater offensive consistency.
Philadelphia Presents a Different Challenge
Saturday’s meeting won’t resemble Atlanta’s convincing 3-1 victory over Philadelphia back in March.
Under new head coach Ryan Richter, the Union have injected more youth into their lineup with academy standouts Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre playing significant roles.
Martino also highlighted changes in Philadelphia’s attack, particularly the emergence of Milan Iloski, whose movement gives the Union a more fluid front line and alters the way they press opponents.
Atlanta has spent the week preparing to play through Philadelphia’s aggressive high press while maintaining composure in possession.
With only one point separating the two clubs in the Eastern Conference standings, Saturday’s match could become one of Atlanta’s most significant opportunities to gain ground in the playoff race.
Atlanta United Unified Also in Action
Before the MLS match, Atlanta United Unified will play its first road match of the season against Philadelphia Union Unified at 3:30 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the match live on atlutd.com/live.
What This Means
Atlanta United understands that improving results will require more than tactical adjustments.
The club is leaning on veteran leadership, stronger relationships, and improved mentality as it looks to reverse its recent form. If those lessons learned off the field begin translating into victories, Saturday’s trip to Philadelphia could mark an important turning point in Atlanta’s season.
Here are verified links on AtlantaSoccer.News related to the article and stories mentioned:
- Atlanta United Transfers Pedro Amador to Hapoel Be’er Sheva
- Atlanta United Battles Back for Dramatic 2-2 Draw Against Charlotte FC
- Atlanta United 2 Defeats NYCFC II 3-2 as Arif Kovac’s Brace Makes Club History
- Atlanta Soccer Cup Brings World Cup Spirit Back to Atlanta This August
More Atlanta United and Georgia soccer coverage is available at AtlantaSoccer.News.
Join the Conversation
Can Atlanta United turn its improved chemistry into points on the road against Philadelphia? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what you expect from the Five Stripes this weekend.
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.