Ronny Deila is keeping Atlanta United’s rhythm unpredictable—and reporters on their toes.
After last Thursday’s training session brought relay races and competitive games to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, this week took a more serious turn. On Tuesday, the group focused heavily on sharp passing drills and one-touch play before media were ushered out for the closed portion of training.
“We didn’t do any fun drills today,” Brooks Lennon said. “It was all business.”
That business mindset is right in line with what Deila has preached since day one—managing “the total load.” For Deila, training goes beyond what happens on the field. It includes gym work, recovery sessions, and overall mentality. Tuesday’s intensity was part of a carefully mapped-out week aimed at building both physical fitness and mental edge.
“We have more control now,” Deila explained. “We’ve talked, we’ve worked in groups. It’s clear where we want to go and how we want to train this team.”
The work appears to be paying off.
Second-Half Surge Signals Growth
Atlanta United’s comeback win over New York City FC on Saturday wasn’t just thrilling—it was historic.
Down 3-1 in the second half, the 5-Stripes roared back to win 4-3, marking the club’s first victory after trailing by two goals since 2018. The win also highlighted a growing trend: second-half dominance. Just one week prior, Atlanta battled back for a 2-2 draw at FC Cincinnati, scoring late on an own goal. In the last two matches, Atlanta has scored five second-half goals—an energy shift Lennon and Deila both attribute to improved conditioning.
“This past game, we all felt physically our best,” Lennon said. “Especially late in the second half—we were pressing them, going all in.”
Tactically, Saturday’s switch-up proved vital. Saba Lobjanidze moved from left to right wing, and Miguel Almirón slid into a more central No. 10 role. Deila wouldn’t confirm if that look returns this Saturday but hinted it’s on the table.
“We’ll see what the game will bring,” he smiled.
Scouting FC Dallas and Luciano Acosta
Next up: FC Dallas, Atlanta’s first Western Conference opponent of the year. But don’t expect a break—their main threat is no stranger.
Luciano Acosta, the reigning MLS MVP and former FC Cincinnati star, now leads FC Dallas with three goals. The Argentine playmaker has long been a thorn in Atlanta’s side, tallying nine goals against the 5-Stripes in his career.
“He’s dangerous,” Lennon said bluntly. “We need to be aware of him at all times.”
Deila added, “We need him to run after us, not the other way around.”
Containing Acosta will be key—but so will building on last week’s offensive fireworks. Emmanuel Latte Lath netted his fifth goal of the season, and Almirón got his first since returning to Atlanta.
Looking for Three More on HBCU Night
The comeback against NYCFC was just the beginning of Atlanta’s three-match homestand, with the goal clear: nine points.
Saturday presents another chance to protect the Benz and honor culture, tradition, and pride during the club’s annual HBCU Night. The evening will feature an HBCU drumline lighting up the Front Porch, halftime, and the Supporters Section. The Morehouse Glee Club will join in with the national anthem and perform Lift Every Voice and Sing, a song woven into the very roots of Black excellence.
It’s more than just a match—it’s a celebration of Atlanta’s soul.
“The energy, the performances, the drums—it’s going to feel like a rock concert,” Lennon said.
And Deila? He’s ready for the next step.
“I can’t remember one team that has outplayed us,” he said. “We have so much to improve still—and that gets me excited.”
