Alex Takes the Helm at Athletic Club-MG Following Rui Duarte’s Dismissal

Athletic Club of Minas Gerais has appointed former Brazilian international Alex as its new head coach, effective immediately. The move comes after the club’s recent relegation in the Minas Gerais State Championship and the subsequent dismissal of Portuguese manager Rui Duarte.

A Change in Leadership

Alex de Souza, 48, brings a wealth of experience as a player, having starred for clubs like Palmeiras, Cruzeiro, and Coritiba. He will be tasked with guiding Athletic Club through the upcoming Série B of the Brazilian Championship and the 2026 Copa do Brasil. His coaching experience includes roles at the youth levels of São Paulo, Avaí, Antalyaspor (Turkey), and most recently, Operário-PR.

Duarte’s Departure

Rui Duarte, the former coach, was relieved of his duties following the club’s performance in the state championship. Duarte, a Portuguese national, had been with the club since 2025. Transfermarkt details his managerial history, showing a recent stint with Marítimo before joining Athletic Club-MG.

New Support Staff

Alex will be joined by technical assistants João Paulo Cavalcanti and José Roberto Lucini, forming his new coaching team. The club expressed its confidence in Alex and his team’s ability to lead a “solid and competitive campaign” throughout the season.

Upcoming Fixture

Alex’s debut as Athletic Club’s manager is scheduled for March 4th against Rio Branco-ES in the Copa do Brasil.

Official Statement

Athletic Club released a statement announcing the hiring, highlighting Alex’s status as “an idol of Brazilian football” and expressing excitement about the new chapter for the club. FIA Football provides further details on Duarte’s career trajectory.