After the emotional departure of club icon Hulk—who was officially unveiled by Fluminense this Monday—Atlético Mineiro faces a new chapter. The question on every fan's mind: how will Galo move forward without their talisman?

Head coach Eduardo Domínguez has his first major decision to make: who steps up to take the free kicks? In the wake of the 1-1 draw against Botafogo, the Argentine tactician remained composed, emphasizing that the team will naturally find its new set-piece specialist.

"Whenever a major reference leaves, it creates a void. That feeling is normal," Domínguez explained. "But Maycon took a penalty with great class in the derby. We scored from set pieces in the previous match. Vitor Hugo came in alone at the far post and missed the header. Cassierra missed at the near post before Vitor. This is the situation we have. Yes, I understand the feeling, but we solve it as a team."

Beyond the Hulk-sized hole in the lineup, Domínguez addressed a broader concern: the team's recent fatigue. With only three wins, two draws, and five defeats in their last ten matches, Galo's form has dipped noticeably.

"I believe everything is interconnected," the coach said. "It's not just the defensive side, nor just the attacking side—it's everything. It's not just the physical side, nor just the mental side—it's all of it. If one player is tired, that spreads to everyone in the day-to-day. What we have to improve is everything. And it's a little bit of each thing. We know what we need to improve and how we need to improve it."

For Atlético fans, the immediate focus shifts to their next challenge: a Copa do Brasil clash against Ceará at Arena Castelão this Wednesday. With a 2-1 advantage from the first leg, Galo has a narrow lead to protect—but without their former captain, every set piece, every moment of composure will be scrutinized.

As Domínguez searches for answers, one thing is clear: rebuilding the team's identity without Hulk will take time, patience, and collective effort. For now, the football world watches to see who will claim the mantle from the departed legend.