Left-backs play a fundamental role in the balance between defense and attack, contributing with their skill, stamina and vision of the game, and the famous Galo stands out with several talents! We’ve put together a list of the best left-backs in Atlético Mineiro history. Join us!
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What does a left-back do?
In defense, the left-back is responsible for marking the opposition’s attackers on the right, intercepting passes and blocking crosses, as well as supporting the defenders in coverage.
Offensively, the left-back must advance down the flank, offering passing options and crosses for the attackers. His ability to dribble, cross accurately and occasionally finish on goal makes him a versatile and crucial part of the team’s dynamic, balancing the actions of defense and attack throughout the match.
Best left-backs in the history of Atlético Mineiro
Paulo Roberto Prestes
Paulo Roberto Prestes played for Atlético Mineiro between 1973 and 1975. He was a technical and disciplined left-back who could defend as well as support the attack with efficiency. Paulo Roberto Prestes was part of the team that won the 1976 Campeonato Mineiro and was known for his regularity on the pitch.
Rubens Menin
Rubens Menin played for Atlético Mineiro between 1954 and 1961. He was a skillful left-back known for his ability to get forward and score important goals. Menin helped Galo win three Minas Gerais championships (1954, 1955, 1956).
André Luís
André Luís played for Atlético Mineiro between 1998 and 2000. He was a modern left-back with the ability to attack and defend with equal efficiency. André Luís was instrumental in winning the 1999 Campeonato Mineiro and is remembered for his regularity and commitment. His skills make him one of the best left-backs in Atlético Mineiro’s history.
Oldair
Oldair played for Atlético Mineiro between 1980 and 1984. He was known for his solid defense and precise crosses. Oldair was a key player in winning four consecutive Minas Gerais championships (1980, 1981, 1982, 1983).
Serginho
Serginho, also known as Serginho Chulapa, played for Atlético Mineiro between 1988 and 1990. Despite his short spell at the club, he stood out for his speed and ability to support the attack, helping Galo win the 1988 Campeonato Mineiro.
Guilherme Arana
Guilherme Arana is one of the most recent names and played for Atlético Mineiro from 2020 to 2023. He is known for his ability to attack and defend with equal skill. Arana was instrumental in winning the 2021 Campeonato Brasileiro, the 2021 Copa do Brasil and the 2020, 2021 and 2022 Campeonato Mineiro. He’s also not left out of the list of the best left-backs in Atlético Mineiro’s history.
Dedê
Dedê played for Atlético Mineiro between 2009 and 2012. He brought his vast international experience to the club, being one of the pillars of the defense. Dedê helped Galo win the 2012 Campeonato Mineiro and is remembered for his leadership on the pitch.
Eron
Eron played for Atlético Mineiro between 1985 and 1991. He was a versatile and determined left-back who knew how to support the attack and defend with equal efficiency. Eron won four Minas Gerais championships (1985, 1986, 1988, 1989) during his time at the club.
Júnior
Júnior, also known as Júnior Brasília, played for Atlético Mineiro between 2002 and 2004. He was known for his technical ability and accurate crosses. Júnior was instrumental in winning the Mineiro Championship in 2003.
Wagner
Wagner played for Atlético Mineiro between 1978 and 1980. He was a solid and consistent left-back, known for his dedication and effort on the pitch. Wagner was part of the team that won the Mineiro Championship in 1978 and 1979. His talent makes him one of the best left-backs in the history of Atlético Mineiro.
Nonoca
Nonoca played for Atlético Mineiro between 1949 and 1952. He was a skillful and determined left-back who contributed significantly to Galo’s defense at the time. Nonoca helped the club win two Minas Gerais championships (1949 and 1952).
Cerezo
Toninho Cerezo played for Atlético Mineiro between 1972 and 1983. Although he is best remembered as a midfielder, Cerezo also played as a left-back on a few occasions, showing his versatility and skill. He was instrumental in winning several Minas Gerais championships (1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983).
Lincoln
Lincoln played for Atlético Mineiro between 1995 and 1999. He was a skillful and versatile left-back, capable of supporting the attack efficiently. Lincoln was crucial in winning the Mineiro Championship in 1995 and 1999.
Jorge Valença
Jorge Valença played for Atlético Mineiro between 1973 and 1977. He was known for his defensive skills and his ability to support the attack when necessary. Jorge Valença was part of the team that won the 1976 Campeonato Mineiro.
Dinho
Dinho, also known as Adilson, played for Atlético Mineiro between 1975 and 1979. He was a solid and determined left-back who contributed significantly to Galo’s defense at the time. Dinho helped the club win the 1976 Campeonato Mineiro.
List: the best left-backs in Atlético Mineiro’s history
- Paulo Roberto Prestes
- Rubens Menin
- André Luís
- Oldair
- Serginho
- Guilherme Arana
- Dedê
- Eron
- Junior
- Wagner
- Nonoca
- Toninho Cerezo
- Lincoln
- Jorge Valença
- Dinho
Left-backs have always played a crucial role in Atlético Mineiro’s balance, contributing with their technique, race and commitment on the pitch.
If you enjoyed taking a look back at the best left-backs in the history of Atlético Mineiro, keep following our articles to find out more about the great players and their careers in this and other Brazilian teams:
- The 15 best right-backs in the history of Atlético Mineiro
- The 15 best goalkeepers in the history of Atlético Mineiro
- 20 best right wingers in Fortaleza’s history
