Should he not be needed to for the Chicago game, manager Gerardo Martino has options to replace Almiron, though none are a like-for-like replacement because of his unique blend of speed, passing ability, shooting skill and endurance.

Martino could turn to Ezequiel Barco, who came in for Almiron after his injury. Barco, the most expensive transfer in MLS history with a reported price tag of $15 million, is an excellent passer.

Martino could also push Darlington Nagbe higher up the field. In a 3-5-2, Nagbe typically plays a midfielder that bridges the defense to offense. If he were tabbed to replace Almiron, he would move higher up the field and to the left. Nagbe is also an excellent passer and better than Barco defensively.

Martino could also use either veteran Kevin Kratz or Andrew Carleton, who has been playing well as a No. 10 for Atlanta United 2.

It is the second injury Almiron has suffered while playing for Atlanta United. The first came in September last year and forced him to miss four games during which his team went 1-1-2.