Chicago Fire v Atlanta United: Martino Eyeing Transfers After World Cup Break Atlanta United are yet to find their rhythm under Tata Martino, but the club remains focused on improving their performance ahead of the World Cup break. Despite a summer of 12 signings, including the acquisition of Tomas Jacob from Necaxa, the team has struggled to translate those additions into consistent results. In their opening six league matches of the season, Atlanta has managed just one win, following a three-game losing streak that left them in a precarious position. However, a brief resurgence saw them go unbeaten in their next two matches before a 3-1 defeat to the Columbus Crew highlighted their ongoing challenges. Martino, who is in his second stint with Atlanta, emphasized the importance of maintaining competitiveness until the World Cup break. “We understand we have an important break for the World Cup this season and also the summer transfer window that will open,” he said. “We’ll be open to new signings and paying attention in that window, but I also think we need to be a solid team from now and through all the games up until that point.” Martino’s comments underscored the delicate balance between preparing for the transfer market and ensuring the squad remains competitive in the short term. The recent match against Columbus Crew provided a stark reminder of Atlanta’s struggles. Wessam Abou Ali’s brace gave Columbus a commanding lead, while Aleksey Miranchuk’s goal briefly narrowed the gap. However, Max Arfsten’s late strike sealed the win for the Crew, leaving Atlanta with a 3-1 loss. The game also revealed some statistical insights: Atlanta’s expected goals (xG) total of 1.24 from seven shots contrasted sharply with Columbus’ 1.46 from 16 attempts.#atlanta_united #tata_martino #chicago_fire #wessam_abou_ali #aleksey_miranchuk
Chicago Fire vs Atlanta United Match Preview: Fire Aim to Extend Streak Against Struggling Atlanta Saturday’s match at Soldier Field marks a pivotal moment for the Chicago Fire as they seek to continue their winning streak against an Atlanta United side that has struggled to convert talent into results. The Fire, coming off back-to-back victories over Philadelphia and Nashville, face an Atlanta team that has yet to secure a win in 2026 despite boasting one of the league’s most expensive rosters. The absence of head coach Tata Martino, who was red-carded in Atlanta’s 3-1 loss to Columbus last Saturday, adds another layer of uncertainty for the visiting side. The Fire’s head coach, Gregg Berhalter, acknowledged Martino’s influence on the game despite his temporary absence. “Nothing changes,” Berhalter said, emphasizing that the team would still feel the impact of Martino’s tactical acumen. “If he travels, he’ll be able to communicate what’s happening on the sideline. Sometimes there’s even more of an impulse for the team because they know they need to take care of it by themselves.” This sentiment underscores the Fire’s focus on maintaining their defensive resilience, a key factor in their recent success. Atlanta’s struggles this season have been stark despite their high-profile signings. The team, which once redefined the potential of an expansion franchise by winning the 2018 MLS Cup, has since faced inconsistency. Their only win in 2026 came against a struggling Philadelphia team, and they’ve yet to score multiple goals in any game this year. The absence of Martino, who previously guided Atlanta to their 2018 title, has not improved their fortunes.#atlanta_united #tata_martino #chicago_fire #gregg_berhalter #soldier_field
Which Chicago Fire, PD and Med Characters Are Leaving? The renewal of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med has sparked speculation about which characters may not return for the upcoming seasons. Over the past few years, the trio of One Chicago shows have seen several departures, including key figures like Boden, Carver, and Ritter from Fire; Upton and Kiana Cook from P.D.; and Maggie and Will Halstead from Med. Some exits were due to budget cuts, while others were driven by actors’ personal choices. As the series move into new seasons, fans are now focusing on potential cast changes and plot-driven exits. Below are five characters whose futures remain uncertain. Dr. Daniel Charles, portrayed by Oliver Platt, is among the most likely to leave Chicago Med. The psychiatrist’s departure has been hinted at throughout the season, with his struggles and panic attacks escalating to a critical point. In a recent episode, Charles collapsed from a stroke, raising questions about his fate. While his exit was initially framed as a retirement, the show’s direction suggests he may face a more dramatic end before the season concludes. Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney, has already left Chicago Fire after being fired from Firehouse 51 for misconduct. His character’s absence during the latter half of the season further complicates his return. Although Mulroney hinted at a potential comeback, the uncertainty surrounding his future makes it unlikely he will return to 51. The firehouse has already been replaced by Battalion Chief Hopkins, leaving Pascal’s fate unresolved. Kevin Atwater, portrayed by LaRoyce Hawkins, remains a beloved figure on Chicago P.D., but his storyline introduces new complications. Atwater is set to become a father to Tasha Fox, who currently resides in Miami.#chicago_fire #chicago_pd #chicago_med #oliver_platt #dermot_mulroney
