Coming off the international break, Ronny Deila, in his return to his former stomping grounds, knew rotation was inevitable. What he’s delivered, however, is a fascinating lineup featuring four natural fullbacks in the backline, ready to make Atlanta United’s defense more mobile and press-resistant!
Only one international player from the recent window is starting: the tireless Saba Lobjanidze! And in a fresh twist, he’ll be lining up as one of two No. 9s alongside the in-form Jamal Thiaré, Atlanta United’s top goalscorer since May! This pairing promises a balanced attack – Thiaré’s physicality and positioning with Saba’s finesse and directness, both capable of stretching NYCFC’s defense.
The five-at-the-back formation sees Pedro Amador, Ronald Hernández, Matt Edwards, and Brooks Lennon – all natural fullbacks – deployed defensively. Hernández and Edwards will join Derrick Williams in the central defensive trio. This marks Matt Edwards’ fifth consecutive start at center back (and seventh straight overall), an impressive feat for a player who began the season primarily at right back!
In midfield, the experienced duo of Alexey Miranchuk and Mateusz Klich will anchor the lineup alongside Homegrown talent Will Reilly. Reilly, who impressed Deila with his effort during a rotated squad match against FC Cincinnati in March, gets another golden opportunity to shine!
Here’s your full Atlanta United Starting XI for tonight at New York City FC:
- Goalkeeper: Brad Guzan (C)
- Defense: Brooks Lennon, Matt Edwards, Derrick Williams, Ronald Hernández, Pedro Amador
- Midfield: Mateusz Klich, Will Reilly, Alexey Miranchuk
- Forwards: Jamal Thiaré, Saba Lobjanidze
Reserves: Jayden Hibbert, Noah Cobb, Efraín Morales, Luis Abram, Cooper Sanchez, Nyk Sessock, Luke Brennan, Miguel Almirón, Emmanuel Latte Lath. Expect some big names to make an impact off the bench!
Key Storylines & Stats to Watch:
- Ronny Deila’s Return: The gaffer faces his former team on the road for the first time since winning MLS Cup with NYCFC in 2021.
- Saba Up Front: Lobjanidze gets his first start as a forward this season, bringing his league-leading sprints (238, 9th in MLS) to the attack.1
- Edwards’ Ascent: Matt Edwards continues his impressive run, solidifying his role in the central defense.
- Lennon’s Return: Brooks Lennon is back in the starting XI for the first time since May 17, fresh off breaking Atlanta United’s all-time assists record on May 3!
- Attacking Firepower: Atlanta United’s attack is surging, generating 8.76 expected goals in their last three matches (3rd in MLS over that span) and ranking second in MLS with 23.6 expected assists on the season!
- Road Win Hunt: The Five Stripes are searching for their first-ever regular season road win against NYCFC.
- Injuries: Josh Cohen, Stian Gregersen, Edwin Mosquera, Tristan Muyumba, and Cayman Togashi are all out due to injury.
- Second Half Kickoff: This match marks the official start of the second half of Atlanta United’s 2025 MLS regular season. Currently 13th in the Eastern Conference, eight points off a Wild Card spot, every point from here on out is crucial!
Let’s see if Deila’s tactical gamble pays off and helps Atlanta United kick off this historic road trip with a crucial three points! VAMOS ATLANTA!
