Atlanta United entered 2019 with a huge target on their backs. The defending champions retained their talismanic striker Josef Martinez, and despite losing Miguel Almiron to Newcastle United, they were able to sign River Plate’s Pity Martinez to replace the nifty Paraguayan midfielder. Atlanta also appointed Frank de Boer as their new head coach following Tata Martino’s exit at the end of 2018. With most key pieces from their championship run still in the squad, the addition of Pity Martinez, and a new manager with European experience, all signs pointed to Atlanta United picking up right where they had left off the previous season. However, the beginning of 2019 was rough for Atlanta. The dominance of the ball and explosiveness that characterized Tata Martino’s side was lacking during the first quarter of the season. Adjusting to De Boer’s style, coupled with most team’s extra drive to beat the reigning champions, was a tough hurdle to overcome for Atlanta. In their first six league ga...