Atlético Mineiro 'crushes' Jorge Sampaoli

The Argentine coach has been dismissed from the Brazilian team's bench; he is already looking for a new club

Héctor Andreu | 13 Feb 2026 | 10.34
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Sampaoli leaves Atlético Mineiro / Sport
Sampaoli leaves Atlético Mineiro / Sport

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Jorge Sampaoli has ceased to be the coach of Atlético Mineiro in a mutually agreed decision that ends weeks of internal tension at the Brazilian club.

There was no dismissal or unilateral resignation. The final meeting was held in a cordial tone, but with irreconcilable positions regarding the sporting direction of the project. The 65-year-old Argentine coach believed that the promises made regarding reinforcements had not been fulfilled. The board, on the other hand, defended their planning.

Jorge Sampaoli and the Differences with Atlético Mineiro

Jorge Sampaoli's second spell at Atlético Mineiro started in September last year, following Cuca's departure. His return was driven by pressure from the fans. The 'torcida' even protested in front of the club demanding his hiring. The contract was set to run until December 2027.

However, discrepancies emerged quickly. Jorge Sampaoli demanded players suited to his high-pressing and offensive style. The sports management deemed some of his requests unfeasible. This gap grew over the months in Brazil.

An Irregular Balance in Brazil

During this second spell, Jorge Sampaoli led the team in 34 official matches. The record was ten wins, 16 draws, and eight defeats. In 2025, he took Galo to the final of the Copa Sudamericana. The team lost in a penalty shootout against Lanús, finishing as runner-up.

In the last Brasileirão, Atlético Mineiro finished in 11th place. A respectable position that secured a continental spot for the following season in Brazil. However, the start of the 2026 campaign was hesitant. Only two wins in ten official matches raised alarms.

The 3-3 draw against Remo at the MRW Arena under heavy rain was his last match in charge of the team.

Internal Wear and Tear in Brazilian Football

Beyond results, institutional wear and tear were decisive. Jorge Sampaoli has always defended a non-negotiable model. His tactical demand and intensity in training sessions garnered admiration but also caused friction within the club environment in Brazil.

The coach believed that, without specific reinforcements, it was impossible to compete with Palmeiras or Flamengo for the Brasileirao elite. The board did not share that vision. They believed the project needed to adjust to a different economic reality.

Sampaoli leaves Atlético Mineiro

Sampaoli's Overall Numbers at Galo

Combining his two cycles at Atlético Mineiro, Jorge Sampaoli concludes his time in Belo Horizonte with 79 matches. The total balance shows 36 wins, 25 draws, and 18 defeats. His trophy collection includes the Campeonato Mineiro won in 2020.

That title marked one of the most celebrated moments in his first spell in Brazil. Since then, expectation levels remained high. Popular support never wavered. Even in the most challenging times, the fans showed support for the Argentine coach.

The Future of Atlético Mineiro after the Departure

Atlético Mineiro is already working on finding a replacement. The name most mentioned is Renato Gaúcho, available after his term at Fluminense. The operation won't be simple. The team needs balance and stability after months of internal tensions in Brazil.

As for Jorge Sampaoli, he once again enters the international market. His profile always generates interest in South America and Europe. His bold and offensive style may divide opinions, but no one questions his ability to transform competitive dynamics.

With this agreed departure, Jorge Sampaoli closes a new chapter in Brazil, leaving a mark defined by intensity, demand, and conviction.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Atlético Mineiro "fulmina" a Jorge Sampaoli

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