Ezequiel Barco has been in top form since returning to the club from a call-up to join the Argentina National Team at the Tokyo Olympics – and the league has taken notice. For the second consecutive week, the Atlanta United midfielder has been named to the MLS Team of the Week presented by Audi.
Barco played a full 90 minutes in Sunday’s 1-0 win against Los Angeles FC and created two of the club’s six chances. He recorded his third assist of the year in the 46th minute when he found Josef Martínez on a cross for Martínez’s fifth goal of the season. Another opportunity came in the 32nd minute when Barco took a good-looking free kick that went just wide of the goal.
“Barquito is special,” Martínez said on Sunday. “When he’s in form he’s a difference-maker for us.”
Barco’s first start with Atlanta United since returning from the Summer Games came on August 4 against Montreal. In the three matches since then, Atlanta United has come from behind to tie against Montreal, scored three goals against and beat the defending league champions Columbus Crew, and shut out LAFC to gain three points in the league table. In all three games, Barco accumulated at least a goal or an assist.
“Preparation,” Barco said when asked about the key to his consistent performances. “I think we have to keep preparing 100 percent during the week leading up to these games because that is what helps you mentally, physically.”
Atlanta United looks to build off their two straight wins when they return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday to face Toronto FC. Click here to view tickets.
