Atlanta United Vs Herediano: 5 key players to watch – The two Martinez’s

ATLANTA, GA DECEMBER 08: Atlanta's Josef Martinez (7) "smokes" the competition after scoring a goal during the MLS Cup between the Portland Timbers and Atlanta United FC on December 8th, 2018 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA DECEMBER 08: Atlanta's Josef Martinez (7) "smokes" the competition after scoring a goal during the MLS Cup between the Portland Timbers and Atlanta United FC on December 8th, 2018 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – November 4: David Villa #7 of New York City and Eric Remedi #11 of Atlanta United challenge for the ball during the New York City FC Vs Atlanta United FC MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal match at Yankee Stadium on November 4th, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – November 4: David Villa #7 of New York City and Eric Remedi #11 of Atlanta United challenge for the ball during the New York City FC Vs Atlanta United FC MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal match at Yankee Stadium on November 4th, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images) /

2. Eric Remedi

If you go back and watch Atlanta’s MLS Cup run in 2018, you will find a key yet unsung player in the midfield: Eric Remedi. He transferred to Atlanta during the summer window but immediately impacted the team. Remedi was instrumental in shutting down opposing teams’ best midfield players, especially in the playoffs.

It looks like Remedi will form a midfield partnership with either Jeff Larentowicz or Darlington Nagbe. It also seems that most of the defensive responsibilities will fall on Remedi. Larentowicz is older than most and Nagbe is more technically adept on the ball than in defense, meaning Remedi will most likely be the midfield shield for a now three-man backline.

After such an impressive performance in the playoffs, can he continue to shine at the next level? Regardless of whether he can or can’t, Remedi will be an important player to watch during the team’s run in CCL. Atlanta’s success will most likely ride on whether or not he can boss the midfield and stifle opponent’s attacking play.