Atlanta United Vs Herediano: 5 key players to watch

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) /

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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 08: Atlanta United forward Hector Villalba (15) the MLS Cup Finals match between Atlanta United and Portland Timbers on December 8, 2018 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.(Photo by John Adams/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

1. Hector Villalba

Like Barco, Hector Villalba’s role was reduced to a super-sub role by the end of the season. While he didn’t deal with any off-field issues, he did deal with injury problems throughout 2018. Because of his lack of playing time and the team’s surplus of talent, he didn’t see much of the field in the playoffs.

Because of how he ended the 2018 campaign, it will be interesting to see what is his role for this season. He gets a fresh start in the form of a new season and an entirely new coaching staff. Fans and media alike will get their first true look at Villalba this Thursday in the club’s first real competition of the season.

I am expecting to see Villalba, although I don’t think he will start. I expect more of a super-sub role for the Paraguayan international, at least in the early goings of the tournament and MLS season.

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I think de Boer will utilize Villalba more in MLS play than CCL play. Thanks to this first match on Thursday, we will have a more clear picture of that role.

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