Despite MLS playoff action quickly approaching, Atlanta United has yet another reason to be excited this month with five ATL UTD players representing their nations at the U-17 FIFA World Cup.
Andrew Carleton (Atlanta United, Forward) Chris Goslin (Atlanta United, Midfielder) and Justin Garces (Atlanta United U-19 Academy, Goalkeeper) are sporting the red, white and blue and hoping to help the United States win its first-ever World Cup.
The three players checked in from India on the ATLUTD Twitter account to update fans on their experience so far and answer any questions thrown their way. Below are just a few of their answers:
Favorite moment so far with the U.S. Youth National Team?
Justin and Chris had shared their favorite memory with each other; their first match against India at the FIFA U-17 World Cup. They played in front of over 50,000 fans which is something they will never forget. Andrew’s favorite memory in the red, white and blue was winning the Nike Friendlies because he was able to play on home soil and help the U.S. to three big wins against Brazil, Portugal and Turkey.
What do 17-year-olds do in Atlanta?
The boys concluded they do the same things all other 17-year-olds do when they’re not on the pitch. They lead pretty normal lives outside of an extensive soccer schedule.
Are you going to Prom?
Andrew is going if he finds a good date, Chris plans to go “all out” for his senior year, and Justin… sees no plans for prom in his future.
Andrew & Chris, thoughts on being in FIFA 18?
The boys have not been able to play FIFA18 yet because they have been out of the country since it was released, but they’re both excited to play as themselves in their childhood video game.
What does it mean to put on a USA jersey?
Justin: “It’s one of a kind. I take great pride in it and I’m sure everyone else does as well. To me, it’s an honor.”
Chris: “It’s a great honor, representing your country, your family, your club, obviously Atlanta. It’s is a great honor.”
Andrew: “It’s always been a great honor to represent the country as a whole and be able to battle for a World Cup and be able to do it here. To be the first U.S. team to win a World Cup is our ultimate goal and hopefully we’ll be able to do that.”
