Training Continues Through the Break
Atlanta United doesn’t stop working. With MLS play resuming this weekend against Columbus Crew, the 5-Stripes kept intensity high in Marietta, sharpening fitness and tactics with scrimmage-heavy sessions at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground.
A handful of internationals are still due back later this week, but several returned to the pitch Tuesday, including Luke Brennan and Bartosz Slisz, who were eased back into training with recovery drills.
Luke Brennan: Club Starter, World Cup Hopeful
Few young players in MLS have seen their stock rise as quickly as Luke Brennan. The 20-year-old winger joined the U.S. U-20 Men’s National Team in Spain during the break, where he logged an assist in a 4-1 win against Morocco before starting the second match and playing 80 minutes.
That international form comes as the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile looms later this month. Brennan knows what’s at stake:
“I’ve been playing well, and I think when I go with the U.S., obviously it’s important to me to represent the country,” Brennan said. “I think I’ve proven myself.”
Since July, Brennan has become a fixture on Atlanta’s left flank, starting six matches and bringing a fearless one-on-one attacking style. Playing alongside veterans like Miguel Almirón and Saba Lobjanidze has only fueled his growth.
“The goal is to go further and to hopefully be in Europe one day,” Brennan added. “Playing with these big names here can help me a lot further in my career.”
Brad Guzan’s Birthday Session
While Brennan looks to the future, one club legend reminded everyone he’s still very much in the present. Brad Guzan turned 41 on Tuesday and marked the occasion the only way he knows how — commanding the goal in a training session full of short-sided scrimmages.
The veteran keeper threw his body around, made a highlight-reel diving stop on a long-range strike, and even launched throws that traveled the entire length of the small-sided pitch to start counterattacks.
His teammates made sure to celebrate too, forming a tunnel for Guzan to run through after practice. Defender Enea Mihaj praised the captain’s influence:
“He’s a really crazy guy, a really good guy,” Mihaj said. “He’s really helpful in the dressing room and on the pitch, obviously. I wish him happy birthday and all the best for him and his family.”
The 5-Stripes are gearing up for a crucial matchup:
- Columbus Crew
- Saturday, Sept. 13
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- 4 p.m. ET
- MLS Season Pass (Apple TV)
Atlanta sits on the playoff bubble, making every point critical in the stretch run. Brennan’s form and Guzan’s leadership could be decisive as Ronny Deila finalizes his lineup later this week.
Final Word
Whether it’s a teenager chasing a World Cup dream or a veteran goalkeeper proving age is just a number, Atlanta United’s training ground continues to be the stage for some of the club’s best stories.
Who impressed you more this week — Brennan’s international breakout or Guzan’s birthday saves? Let us know in the comments or join the conversation using #ATLUTD.
