Atlanta United: 5 key players to watch during double matchweek

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ATLANTA, GA – MAY 12: Jeff Larentowicz #18 subs in for Gonzalo Martinez #10 of Atlanta United to make it his 400th MLS appearance during the second half of the game between Atlanta United and Orlando City SC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on May 12, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

3. Jeff Larentowicz

Nagbe is missing on Wednesday, leaving a hole in the midfield. Jeff Larentowicz is the perfect replacement in the midfield. For starters, he is extremely fresh, having played just 37 minutes across three substitute appearances in the last three matches. His last start came on April 27 in the 1-0 home win over Colorado.

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Look for Larentowicz to provide some fresh legs in the midfield. In fact, he may even play on Sunday against New York as well, in place of a resting Remedi. Larentowicz and Remedi can play a full 90 on Wednesday night in Vancouver, while Nagbe and Larentowicz can play most of Sunday’s match before Larentowicz gives way to Remedi. Or Larentowicz can sub in for Remedi on Sunday.

There is also a tactical decision behind leaving Nagbe back on Wednesday and most likely starting Larentowicz. Assuming Vancouver will sit back and bunker on Wednesday night, Atlanta’s possession-based style will be difficult to execute. The team had a hard enough time against Colorado at home. Therefore, de Boer may look for his players to play long balls over top of Vancouver’s defense. Larentowicz is much more suited for this type of play than Nagbe.

Take this play for example. New York has eight players behind the ball in an attempt to keep Atlanta’s five attackers from scoring. Larentowicz picks out a perfect pass to Josef Martinez who converts for the game’s opening goal. Expect Larentowicz to attempt a couple of those passes against both Vancouver and New York.

By the way, congrats to Larentowicz on his 400th MLS appearance.

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