Gabriel Milito has been confirmed as the new coach of Atlético Mineiro and his first major challenge is imminent: next Saturday, March 30, he will have to face Cruzeiro, their classic rival, in the first leg of the Mineiro Championship final.
The return leg of the tournament in the state of Minas Gerais will be on April 7, in what could be the first tournament won for the Argentine, who has just arrived at the institution. In addition, in between the two derbies, Galo will have their debut in the Copa Libertadores against Caracas in Venezuela on April 4.
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With such a busy schedule and no time to lose, the former coach of Argentinos Juniors, 43 years old, will take over training today. He will officially replace Luiz Felipe Scolari, who left the team’s leadership last Wednesday, by “mutual agreement.”
“I am very happy to be here, with responsibility. It is a great challenge for us and for the club. I already know the fans, but I am eager to feel them,” said the former defender of Independiente and FC Barcelona upon arriving in Brazil. According to reports, he signed a contract until the end of 2025.
Upon announcing his hiring, Atlético Mineiro emphasized a playing style focused on “ball possession and shots on goal.” The team has no shortage of players to maintain that philosophy with figures like Paulinho, Hulk, and Matías Zaracho, among others.
Atlético Mineiro turns 116 years old
Milito’s arrival coincides with the day Atlético Mineiro turns 116 years old. Founded on March 25, 1908, the club has experienced international recognition in recent years, mainly with the conquest of the Copa Libertadores in 2013.
In the early hours of their birthday, fans organized a grand celebration. The club’s new home, Arena MRV, was also the scene of the party with an impressive fireworks show.
