Inter Miami manager Tata Martino has praised the work Gonzalo Pineda has done at Atlanta United ahead of their clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Speaking to the Athletic, the former Five Stripes manager lauded how Atlanta have reacted since the Leagues Cup break, with Pineda’s front office also making some strong signings in the summer.
Martino said about Atlanta: “Honestly, it’s a team that I really like. I see them as a team that’s going to make a run during the playoffs. I have a lot of respect for their continued evolution.”
With Atlanta in good form since coming back from Leagues Cup, Inter Miami could be in for a tough match in Georgia that could see Martino lose his unbeaten streak with the Herons.
Moreover, with Lionel Messi a doubt to start the match, Atlanta could take full advantage of the situation by claim a massive scalp in their quest to finish in the MLS playoffs.
Whilst it’ll be an odd affair for Martino, the former Atlanta coach’s comments on his old side are promising, with Pineda forming a squad that could challenge for MLS Cup.
Atlanta have to beat Inter Miami by all means necessary
Martino currently heads the best side in MLS and potentially the best team the division has ever seen, and for Atlanta, beating them on Saturday has to be their only desire.
Inter Miami are yet to be humbled in the league having had Messi and company elevate the squad to an incredible level of quality, yet Atlanta can ruin any momentum this weekend.
The Five Stripes have been excellent since returning to MLS action, and a win against Inter Miami and their former boss will give Atlanta all the confidence they need to end the season on a high.