EASTERN CONFERENCE
KEY DATES!
FEB. 22: MLS Preseason training begins (6 weeks)
APR. 3-4: MLS is Back - Opening Weekend 2021
LATE AUG.: MLS Heineken® Rivalry Week
LATE SUMMER: MLS All-Star Game presented by Target, Leagues Cup, Campeones Cup
NOV. 7: MLS Decision Day
NOV. 19: Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs begin
DEC. 11: 2021 MLS Cup
ATLANTA UNITED FC
2020 RECORD: 6-13-4, 22 points (12th in the East, Did Not Make The Playoffs)
COACH: Gabriel Heinze
KEY ADDITION: FWD Erik Lopez (Olimpia)
KEY DEPARTURE: MID Jeff Larentowicz (Retired)
OUTLOOK: Atlanta had an uncharacteristic poor season after losing talisman forward Josef Martinez early due to a torn ACL. With Martinez healthy and a full season from Marcelino Moreno in the midfield. The big question is if two of Atlanta’s other major signings, Jurgen Damm and Ezequiel Barco, can finally step up. Heinze is an attack-minded coach whose Velez Sarsfield side scored 90 goals during his tenure. Moving to a more open style of play should suit both players well.
PREDICTION: 5th in the East
CHICAGO FIRE
2020 RECORD: 5-10-8, 23 points (11th in the East, Did Not Make The Playoffs)
COACH: Raphael Wicky
KEY ADDITIONS: MID Stanislav Ivanov (Levski Sofia) and DEF Jhon Espinoza (S.D. Aucas)
MID Djordje Mihailovic (CF Montreal)
