Gonzalo Pineda stated the team was focused on defense going into the season. Although Atlanta United has traditionally been an attack-oriented side, the head coach of Atlanta United declared to the media in January that he wanted his team to actively work on improving their defense to start 2024.
We’re going to focus on defensive strategies and how we can play better as a team. Together, increase pressure and carry out the team’s primary offensive concepts.
The team’s offseason actions reflected this defensive focus. Under Carlos Bocanegra’s direction, the scouting department sought talented individuals with a distinguished background. To bolster the assault, they had previously added Tristan Muyumba during the previous season’s transfer window, along with Saba Lobjanidze and Xande Silva. To create a potent center defense duo, the team added MLS veteran Derrick Williams and Norwegian international Stian Gregersen this summer. Bartosz Slisz was also brought in by the front office to support Muyumba in the defensive midfield. The front office supplied Pineda with players who could contribute, with defense being an area that needed work.
After seven games in the regular season, the plan appears to be effective. This season, Atlanta United has improved their defensive play, giving up less goals and preventing high-quality shots for the opposition. This is evident in this week’s metric, predicted goals per shot against.
