Atlético-MG has announced its squad for the upcoming away match against Santos FC in the fourth round of the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. Due to seven key absences, head coach Cuca has called up eight young players from the club’s academy to bolster the squad for the clash at Vila Belmiro, scheduled for Wednesday at 9:30 PM (Brasília time).
Key Absentees for Atlético-MG
The club is dealing with multiple injuries and suspensions, resulting in several unavailable starters:
| Player | Position | Reason |
| Guilherme Arana | Left-back | Muscle injury |
| Júnior Santos | Forward | Right thigh muscle issue |
| Alan Franco | Midfielder | Knee injury |
| Palacios | Midfielder | Injury (unspecified) |
| Igor Rabello | Defender | Recovery phase (thigh edema) |
| Lyanco | Defender | Recently returned (suspension) |
| Zaracho | Midfielder | Recovery in progress |
These absences have forced coach Cuca to dig deep into Atlético’s youth academy to reinforce the squad.
Rising Stars: Youth Players Called Up
Here are the 8 academy talents who will travel with the senior team to face Santos:
- David Kauã (20) – Central Midfielder
- Índio (17) – Attacking Midfielder
- Zé Phelipe (19) – Midfielder
- Gabriel Delfim – Goalkeeper
- Robert – Goalkeeper
- Rômulo – Center-back
- Rubens – Versatile Midfielder
- Bernard – Central Midfielder
Additionally, Ivan Román (Chile) and João Marcelo (Forward) – recent signings – are also included.
Expected Atlético-MG Lineup vs Santos
Despite the challenges, Atlético-MG is expected to field a competitive starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Everson
- Defenders: Saravia, Jemerson, Lemos, Arana (if fit)
- Midfielders: Otávio, Battaglia, Igor Gomes
- Attackers: Pavón, Hulk, Paulinho
The young talents are expected to be on the bench and may be used as strategic substitutions throughout the match.
Recent Performance & Expectations
Atlético-MG has had a mixed start to the season, with performances not quite meeting fan expectations. With so many first-team players sidelined, this match against Santos becomes a key opportunity for the younger generation to shine and prove their worth under pressure.
Watch Atlético-MG Highlights
Here’s a great recap video of recent Atlético-MG matches to get a sense of their form and key players:
📺 Watch on YouTube
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Conclusion
With numerous injuries and suspensions, Atlético-MG is turning to its youth ranks for reinforcements in a crucial clash against Santos. The game could mark the beginning of a new generation of talent stepping up under pressure in Brazil’s top football division. All eyes will be on how coach Cuca balances experience and youth on the field.
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