Atletico Mineiro

Last season was a disappointment for 'Galo'. Not only they failed to repeat the excellent title of 2021, they were quite poor in some moments of the season, despite the big budget of the squad. Finishing 7th and being out of the title race very early in the season, was very hard to take for the fans. This season, 'Galo' won the State Championship's against rivals América, but they started Libertadores season with a defeat, which already provoked criticism and protests over the new coach Coudet. Argentinean coach Eduardo Coudet arrived this season to replace Cuca. Coudet has been employing an attacking 4-3-3 formation with just one holding midfielder. 'Galo' brought a handful of important new players: Lemos is the new leader for the back; Edenilson and Patrick fit Coudet's ideal midfield in perfection, and Paulinho is a bombastic new signing that will share the spotlight with Hulk, in attack. Atlético possesses one of the most talented squads in the country. There are many options for the attacking positions: Pavon, Paulinho, Pedrinho, Vargas, Igor Gomes or Zaracho are all great options to play alongside Hulk in attack. After the title in 2021, all coaches have been struggling to create a good collective spirit and provide the team with a clear game plan. So far, Coudet is yet to make any changes in that department. Therefore, despite the abundance of creative players, the team lacks fluidity and dynamism. Hulk had been the absolute star of the team in the past 2 years, and everyone expects him to continue leading the team for a new season. New man Paulinho is also a big name. Allan is the main reference in the middle of the park. Zaracho looks ready to have his best season at the club.