Atlanta United fans, it’s time to get hyped—Pedro Amador is back! The Portuguese fullback is making his much-anticipated season debut in today’s home clash against the New York Red Bulls. After missing the first two matches with a hamstring injury, Amador is ready to lace up and hit the pitch at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Head coach Ronny Deila wasted no time slotting Amador into the starting XI, and his return couldn’t come at a better time. The 5-Stripes are still missing Brooks Lennon and Ronald Hernández, but Amador’s presence, along with homegrown defender Matt Edwards making his third MLS start, gives Atlanta a much-needed boost in the wide areas.
“That’s good news. Very good news,” Deila said, emphasizing the impact of Amador’s return.
Amador wasted no time making an impression when he joined Atlanta last summer, starting 14 matches—including all five postseason games—and racking up eight assists in 2024. His ability to provide width and attacking support could be a game-changer against a Red Bulls side that has historically been a tough opponent.
While Lennon is still targeting a return next weekend, Amador’s availability allows Atlanta United to be more dynamic in their attack. Deila acknowledged how vital it is to have fullbacks at full strength:
“All our injuries have been on the sides, in the fullback area, so that will give more weight in the squad. They also get more tired because they have to run more, same with the wingers. To double up in these two positions is key to keep attacking and keep having good width in our game.”
Starting XI vs. New York Red Bulls:
Brad Guzan (C), Matt Edwards, Stian Gregersen, Derrick Williams, Pedro Amador, Bartosz Slisz, Tristan Muyumba, Alexey Miranchuk, Miguel Almirón, Saba Lobjanidze, Emmanuel Latte Lath
Reserves: Josh Cohen, Noah Cobb, Luis Abram, Dominik Chong Qui, Jay Fortune, Mateusz Klich, Edwin Mosquera, Xande Silva, Cayman Togashi
Match Notes:
🔴 Miguel Almirón Watch – The club legend is just two goals away from becoming Atlanta United’s second all-time leading scorer! After grabbing an assist in his electric return against CF Montréal, he’s looking to make history today.
⚽ Muyumba’s First Start of 2025 – After featuring in 30 matches last season, Tristan Muyumba gets his first start of the new campaign.
🔴 Breaking the Red Bulls Curse? – Atlanta United holds a rough 3-10-5 (W-L-D) record against New York, but all three wins have come at home. Time to add another to the tally!
🔥 Rising Star Alert – Homegrown fullback Dominik Chong Qui is back on the matchday squad after signing a short-term deal. Last weekend, he became the third-youngest player in club history to appear in an MLS match when he made his debut against Charlotte.
🌸 International Women’s Day Celebration – Atlanta United is celebrating International Women’s Day with women and girls taking on key roles throughout the match, from anthem singers to honorary captains and more. The HERo Collection—a custom retail line made by women, for women—is also available.
Kickoff is just moments away—let’s make it a night to remember, 5-Stripes!
