Atlético-MG defender comments on relationship with Domínguez

Atlético-MG defender comments on relationship with Domínguez Having come through Atlético-MG’s youth academy since the age of 12, center-back Vitão reached the peak of his transition to professional football by scoring his first goal for the senior team at Arena MRV, against Fluminense, in a match valid for the 27th round of the Brasileirão. For his family, who are die-hard Galo supporters, the script had a special flavor. In an interview, the center-back celebrated the fact that he found the net against Fábio, former goalkeeper and historic idol of rivals Cruzeiro. “Scoring against Fábio feels even better. He has been in the youth setup since he was 12, scoring goals in the U-12, U-15, U-16, U-17, U-20 and U-23. Now he’s done it in the professional team and completed every category,” celebrated the player’s father, Alexandre. The athlete’s sister, Júlia, echoed the family’s feelings, saying that “it was like a movie” going through her head when she saw the ball go in and that the pieces of her brother’s journey fit together perfectly in that moment. Beyond the good-natured jab at the opponent, Vitão’s celebration highlighted the young player’s strong relationship with coach Eduardo Domínguez. Having joined the senior squad in August 2025 and already making 11 starts, the center-back ran straight to hug the Argentine coach after the goal, a gesture that moved the manager on the touchline. In an interview with GaloTV, Vitão credited part of his immediate success to Domínguez’s man-management. The defender highlighted that the coach provides a safe environment and is open to dialogue with the youngsters coming up from the academy. “He gives us confidence, lets us feel comfortable in the game, and is always open to talk. With everyone understanding what he wants to convey, we just keep getting stronger. The group comes together, and that’s extremely important,” said the center-back. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.