Atlanta United: 3 things to watch for this preseason

2 of 3

ATLANTA, GA – OCTOBER 24: Atlanta United head coach Frank de Boer acknowledges the fans prior to the start of the MLS playoff match between Philadelphia Union and Atlanta United FC on October 24th, 2019 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. What shape will Atlanta United play with?

Atlanta United have lost several important and popular players this offseason. Social media was rife with angry, tearful farewells. Nevertheless, those that have been brought in and those who are rumored to be brought in have given them interesting options.

More from MLS Multiplex

Those brought in — Brooks Lennon, Anton Walkes, and Fernando Meza to name the likely contributors — are all players who have positional flexibility. All can start at multiple positions: Lennon is capable anywhere on the right flank, while Walkes and Meza can play along the entire backline and in defensive midfield.

With this flexibility, manager Frank de Boer has different formations that he could use, including both the three-man backline with wing-backs or more traditional four-man backline shapes that he implemented at different periods last season.

Obviously, what formation the club settles on will be a fluid situation as players are added throughout the offseason and as adjustments are made during the season. However, it will be fascinating to see how de Boer will line up in critical early-season CONCACAF Champions League games. With a host of pre-season matches to tinker with, it will be something to watch over the course of the coming weeks.

Home/Atlanta United