Atlanta United: Where they stand at the All-Star break

Most Improved

I think this label can be given to numerous Atlanta players, given the sheer amount of players back this year from last year’s team. A significant portion of the team’s returning players have improved their game and are a big part of why Atlanta is playing so well this season. That being said, I think there’s one returning player that has improved more than the others.

Julian Gressel is having a fantastic season. His numbers don’t jump out at the average soccer fan (he has just two goals and eight assists), but spend five minutes watching him on the pitch, and you see why he is important to the Five Stripes. He can line up virtually anywhere on the field, and has made starts at left wing, right wing, attacking midfielder, and defensive midfielder. He has looked confident in each start and is a productive member on a team stacked with talent.

Gressel has started every match this season, and although he may move back to the bench in the near future, he will make an impact every time he steps on the pitch. He’s made an impact every single game so far this season anyway. I am convinced that he can play any position (yes, even goalkeeper) and positively affect the team.

Gresselmania is real and is worth every bit of the hype. Even after winning MLS Rookie of the Year last year, he’s stepped up in a big way for the Five Stripes and will continue to do so.