Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan is set to miss 10-12 weeks after damaging his left knee MCL in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against New York City FC, the club said Tuesday. announced to Here’s what you should know:
- The injury came in the 18th minute when NYCFC’s Gabe Segal touched Guzan with a challenge while attempting to cross towards goal.
- Guzan, 38, missed most of last season after tearing his right Achilles tendon during a game in April 2022. He made his return to the pitch this season in Atlanta’s victory over San Jose on February 27 against his Earthquakes.
- Guzan has 14 saves and two clean sheets in seven games this season.
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Atlanta manager Gonzalo Pineda called the referees after the game and said they needed to better protect their players.
“The way the referees have played the game is maddening. We’ve been at a disadvantage many times this season,” Pineda said. “It was the second time[NYCFC]took Brad Guzan’s knee with no penalty. .”
Pineda added: For me it was a bad call. It was the second time in a row that they turned against Brad like that. ”
Who intervenes in Guzan?
An injury crisis last season derailed Atlanta United’s season, missing out on the playoffs for the second time in their history. Guzan missed a year with a torn Achilles tendon, and 2022 has been a huge blow to goalkeepers.
The front office has addressed the issue by signing two veteran goalkeepers, Clément Diop, 29, and Quentin Westberg, 36, to back up Guzin. Expect Diop to rise to his top spot, but Guzan’s leadership and mastery of Atlanta’s tactics will be missed. — Cardenas
How big a loss is this for Atlanta?
Again, Guzan’s experience, shot-stopping skills, and presence on the field are hard to replace. But more important is Atlanta United’s collective strength to manage this recent adversity. With the team falling apart in his 2022, you’d think Atlanta’s players would have thicker skin in the face of this latest setback.
Diop is a capable goalkeeper who displays quick reflexes. Westberg’s height (6ft 1) is a concern and his questionable ability to keep the ball at his feet could cause problems for Atlanta United if he is forced to play. I have. – Cardenas
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(Photo: Brett Davis/USA Today)
