Atlanta United’s Latte Lath Enters Concussion Protocol Before Miami Match

ATLANTA, Ga. — Atlanta United announced today that forward Emmanuel Latte Lath has entered concussion protocol after sustaining an injury during the team’s recent match against New York Red Bulls on March 8. Latte Lath will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis as he hopes to return for a crucial match against Inter Miami CF.

Latte Lath, who is Atlanta’s leading goal scorer this season, took a hard knock while defending a set piece in last Saturday’s match. He was substituted off in the 68th minute as a precaution. The team will have an extra day for recovery this week before facing Miami, a showdown that will be featured in Sunday Night Soccer.

“We’ll know more about Latte Lath’s status later this week when head coach Ronny Deila addresses the media,” the team stated in a press release.

Latte Lath’s potential absence could weigh heavily on Atlanta United, who are currently dealing with a scoring drought after being shut out in their last two games against Charlotte FC and New York Red Bulls. It has been over 180 minutes since the team found the back of the net, putting added pressure on him to recover quickly.

Despite his protocol status, Latte Lath participated in training and was competitive during drills earlier this week. “It’s great to see him back on the field, and it boosts the morale of the team,” Deila said. “We need all our best players as we prepare for this vital match against Miami.”

When asked about the challenge ahead against Inter Miami, goalkeeper Brad Guzan expressed determination. “You have to be aware of their dangerous players,” Guzan said on Friday. “They can unlock a game with one pass or one play. But we’re focused and ready to go.”

Inter Miami enters the game undefeated in the regular season and has made significant strides in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Head coach Javier Mascherano‘s squad recently featured superstar Lionel Messi, who had not traveled for recent matches due to injury concerns.

Although Messi returned to play against Cavalier FC in the Champions Cup, his availability for the Atlanta match remains uncertain. The Argentine performed well in that game, scoring a second-half goal, prompting excitement among fans and uncertainty among opponents.

“If Messi plays, it’s always a challenge, but we’ve faced strong teams before,” Deila said. “Our focus is on winning three points regardless of who they bring.”

Atlanta also welcomes back key defenders Pedro Amador and Brooks Lennon, who will bolster the roster after recovering from injuries. “Their presence will provide the experience we need on the field,” Deila noted.

Over their last six encounters, Atlanta United has dominated Miami, winning four of those matchups, including a playoff series last season that left a lasting impression on both teams.

As both clubs prepare, fans on both sides are eager for what promises to be a high-stakes match filled with competitive spirit. “It’s three points, and we want to win every game we’re in,” Deila said, emphasizing the importance of every match in the tight race of the MLS.