Atlanta United will be short handed this Sunday.
Atlanta United is headed to Portland without three players. Tata Martino confirmed Thursday that Martinez, Carleton and Garza won’t be making the trip this weekend.
While last week we learned that Josef Martinez was back in training, he still has yet to begin full training with the first team. Tata has mentioned that he doesn’t want to bring Martinez back too soon, as he is so young and has such a bright career ahead of him. Although he makes a huge impact in the Atlanta United offense, it is better that he waits until he is 100% to return to avoid risking further injury.
Many people were discussing the possibility of Andrew Carleton, an explosive 16 year old striker, seeing the field for Atlanta United this weekend. The young star seems to have exactly what it takes to boost the high quality attack that the team has lacked in its last two matches. However, Tata confirmed that the will be given some extra time off to rest after six matches with the United States U-17 national team.
Garza decided himself that he was going to take the week off. He isn’t seriously injured, but is taking precautions as his hip has given him minor issues.
While the team is missing three options, Tata gaurantees that “we have a competitive squad no matter who steps on the field.” I guess we will find out Sunday.