The goalkeeper is a fundamental part of any soccer team, being the unlikely hero in decisive moments. At Atlético Mineiro, this position has always been occupied by players of great talent and personality. Want to see? Then stay tuned for our list of the best goalkeepers in Atlético Mineiro history.
Over the years, the club has revealed and signed some of the best goalkeepers in Brazil, who have stood out for their spectacular saves, leadership on the pitch and dedication to the team.
Here’s a look at the best goalkeepers to have worn the Galo shirt.
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Best goalkeepers in Atlético Mineiro history
Kafunga
Kafunga played for Atlético Mineiro between 1935 and 1954 and is one of the longest-serving and most iconic players in the club’s history. He is considered a legend due to his agility and impressive reflexes. Kafunga was instrumental in winning 10 Campeonato Mineiro titles. After his retirement, he became a respected sports commentator, taking his passion for soccer beyond the pitch.
João Leite
João Leite played for Atlético Mineiro from 1976 to 1988 and again in 1991, being the goalkeeper who played the most games for the club, with 684 appearances. Known for his assured saves and leadership on the pitch, João Leite was an example of professionalism. He won 11 Minas Gerais championships and the Silver Cup in 1971. Off the pitch, he stood out for his social work, creating projects to re-socialize prisoners. Certainly one of the best goalkeepers in the history of Atlético Mineiro.
Victor
Known as “Saint Victor”, he played for Atlético Mineiro from 2012 to 2020. Victor became a contemporary idol thanks to his miraculous penalty save against Tijuana, which ensured qualification for the semi-finals of the 2013 Libertadores. He helped Galo win the 2013 Libertadores, the 2014 South American Cup Winners’ Cup, the 2014 Copa do Brasil and three Minas Gerais championships (2012, 2013, 2015).
Mazurkiewicz
Mazurkiewicz, a Uruguayan goalkeeper, played for Atlético Mineiro between 1972 and 1974. Considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world at the time, he brought international experience to the team. Mazurkiewicz is remembered for his attitude on the pitch and exemplary professionalism, helping Galo win the 1973 Campeonato Mineiro. He is also considered one of the best goalkeepers in the history of Atlético Mineiro.
Diego Alves
Before shining in Europe, Diego Alves played for Atlético Mineiro from 2004 to 2007. Known for his ability to save penalties, he quickly became a fan favorite. His performances helped cement his career and he moved to European soccer, where he continued to excel.
Velloso
Velloso played for Atlético Mineiro between 1999 and 2005. He stood out for his leadership and the security he provided to the defense. During his time at the club, Velloso helped Galo win the 2000 Campeonato Mineiro and was crucial in several important campaigns.
Ubaldo Fillol
Ubaldo Fillol, one of the best Argentine goalkeepers of all time, played for Atlético Mineiro in 1984. Fillol brought his vast experience and refined technique to the team, and was a benchmark for the goalkeepers who came after him. During his time there, he helped solidify Galo’s defense, albeit for a brief period.
Taffarel
Taffarel, a legend of the Brazilian national team, had a brief spell at Atlético Mineiro between 1995 and 1998. He was crucial in winning the 1995 Campeonato Mineiro and stood out for his impeccable technique and the titles he won with the Brazilian national team, including the 1994 World Cup. He stands out as one of the best goalkeepers in Atlético Mineiro’s history.
Renan Ribeiro
A graduate of Atlético Mineiro’s youth academy, Renan Ribeiro played for the first team from 2009 to 2013. He showed great potential from an early age and was instrumental in several decisive matches. After leaving Galo, Renan continued his career in European soccer, showing the quality of Atletico’s training.
Aranha
Aranha played for Atlético Mineiro in 2015. Despite his short spell, he showed great quality and stood out for his difficult saves and his calmness in times of pressure. His experience helped the team at critical moments during the season.
João Marcos
João Marcos played for Atlético Mineiro between 1982 and 1988. Known for his elasticity and quick reflexes, João Marcos was a crucial part of Galo’s defense. He won three Minas Gerais championships (1982, 1983, 1985) during his time at the club.
Wanderley
Wanderley played for Atlético Mineiro between 1989 and 1992. He stood out for his physical presence and command of the defense, being one of the team’s pillars during his time there. Wanderley helped Galo win the 1989 Campeonato Mineiro.
Levir Culpi
Although best remembered as a coach, Levir Culpi also played goalkeeper at the start of his career. He played for Atlético Mineiro in 1977 and is remembered for his versatility and tactical intelligence. His brief career as a goalkeeper was marked by his dedication and passion for soccer.
Milagres
Milagres was Atlético Mineiro’s goalkeeper between 1995 and 2000, known for his ability to make improbable saves. During his time at the club, he won the Mineiro Championship in 1995 and 1999, often being the hero in crucial moments.
Fernando
Fernando played for Atlético Mineiro between 1969 and 1974. He is remembered for his courage and leadership, as well as being one of the most charismatic goalkeepers in the club’s history. Fernando helped Galo win the 1970 Campeonato Mineiro.
Best goalkeepers in the history of Atlético Mineiro
List: the best goalkeepers in the history of Atlético Mineiro
- Kafunga
- João Leite
- Victor
- Mazurkiewicz
- Diego Alves
- Velloso
- Ubaldo Fillol
- Taffarel
- Renan Ribeiro
- Aranha
- João Marcos
- Wanderley
- Levir Culpi
- Miracles
- Fernando
Atlético Mineiro has always had a tradition of revealing and counting great goalkeepers in its squad, each of whom has contributed significantly to the club’s successes.
The best goalkeepers in the history of Atlético Mineiro represent a milestone in their respective eras, winning important titles. To find out more about the world of soccer, keep following our articles:
- 20 best goalkeepers in Fortaleza’s history
- The 15 best coaches in Cruzeiro’s history
- The 15 best coaches in Fluminense’s history
