ATLANTA, Ga. – Atlanta United opened its doors for the first training session of the year, giving fans and media a glimpse into the team’s preparations under new head coach Ronny Deila. With coffee cups in hand, attendees witnessed an intense, fast-paced session that set the tone for an ambitious 2025 season.

Fitness and Fast Football: Deila’s Blueprint

The squad, just four days into preseason, is embracing Deila’s vision of becoming the fittest team in MLS. Center back Derrick Williams shared that fitness and implementing a high-tempo, aggressive playing style are top priorities. Winger Saba Lobjanidze and new midfielder Mateusz Klich echoed the team’s lofty aspirations, with both stating their focus on winning the MLS Cup and league this season.

Saba’s take on preseason: “It’s all about running.” Known for his relentless work ethic, the Georgian winger maintained his fitness over the offseason by training with friends from the Georgian national team and running daily.
Klich’s excitement: The Polish midfielder expressed admiration for Atlanta’s facilities and the club’s professionalism. “It’s better than I thought it was,” Klich shared. “I can’t wait to start.”

Key Highlights from Training

High-Intensity Drills: Training included small-sided 2v2 games, emphasizing quick transitions and sharp attacking-defensive plays. Striker Cayman Togashi, Atlanta’s first-ever Japanese signing, stood out with two consecutive goals in these drills.
Defensive Emphasis: Veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan remained vocal, pushing players like Togashi to press aggressively after losing possession. Midfielder Tristan Muyumba earned praise from assistant coach Carl Robinson for a smart takeaway, demonstrating the team’s commitment to regaining possession.
Chemistry in Action: A standout moment involved Derrick Williams launching a long ball to Luke Brennan, whose one-touch cross found Klich, setting up Togashi for a smooth finish—a sequence highlighting Atlanta’s fast-play philosophy.

Spotlight on New and Familiar Faces

Mateusz Klich: The former D.C. United and English Premier League player is already making his presence felt, showcasing his ability to control the midfield and connect play. Klich and Williams, close friends, are thrilled to reunite on the field.
Cayman Togashi: The new forward impressed with his finishing and movement, signaling that he could play a vital role in Atlanta’s attacking plans.
Jayden Hibbert: The young goalkeeper from Atlanta United 2 gained valuable reps in Brad Guzan’s absence, stepping up with confidence.
Decatur Natives Shine: Academy products Ashton Gordon and Will Reilly made notable contributions, with both showcasing their striking abilities in drills.

Exciting Aspirations and Aggressive Style

Deila’s influence is already apparent, with players emphasizing aggressive, high-pressing football that will entertain fans and produce results. Klich summed up the team’s focus:

“You can expect us to be an aggressive, high-pressing team. We want to keep possession and play entertaining football.”

Looking Ahead

With key players like Bartosz Slisz and Stian Gregersen set to join soon, Atlanta United’s preseason is heating up. As new signings integrate and veterans like Guzan lead the charge, the Five Stripes are poised to make 2025 a season to remember.

Stay tuned for more updates as Atlanta United builds toward its MLS campaign!