Atlético Mineiro is by far the most attractive team of the quarterfinalist, Ronaldinho taking most of the spotlights. But behind him there are some interesting players with plenty of experience under them.
Although Ronaldinho is the star of not only this team, but the cup he has found great partnerships with the likes of: Yo, Diego, Tardelli, Donizete, Gilberto Silva, Joshua, Réver and Bernard among others.
Réver is a strong central defender, who has had experience in German football, with
Wolfsburg, he was also called up to the Brazilian national team and guarantees the safety of his team in the back.
Another player to stand out and to be careful with is Marcos Rocha, he has good defensive work rate, can come out of the back dribbling, and has great speed on the wing. He has been attracting European attention from top teams like Porto of Portugal.
And then there are the vetrans Gilberto Silva and Joshua, both have had participation with the national team. Gilberto had a colorful club career with Arsenal in England. Joshua was never able to make the jump to a bigger European club, but was one of Wolfsburg's top players.
Up top for Mineiro is pure danger. Although not a set center striker anymore like in the beginning of his marvelous European career, Yo has adapted well to his new position at Atletico Mineiro.
Diego Tardelli is a true warrior although only 28 years old he has had plenty of experiences all across the world. The great promise is Bernard, a forward just 20 years is starting to attract attention from national team coach Luis Felipe Scolari.
The curious case of the Mineiro connection with Mexican teams is that the former Americanista Adolfo Rosinei ended up playing there, previously Danilinho was with them before returning to Tigres. And finally Junior Cesar who was in Santos a few years back.
said.rodriguez@sandiegored.com
jonny.rico@sandiegored.com
