Marquinhos Faces High Stakes as Brazil’s Captain at 2026 World Cup

LONDON, ENGLAND — NOVEMBER 15, 2025: Marquinhos of Brazil reacts during the International Friendly between Brazil and Senegal at Emirates Stadium in London. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Seleção’s Leader Brazil enters the 2026 World Cup with arguably the most pressure of any team this summer. Captain Marquinhos is tasked with leading his country after recent disappointments, aiming to lift the trophy for the first time since 2002.

It’s no exaggeration to say as goes Marquinhos, so goes Brazil. The center-back and captain for both Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil is the oldest and longest-serving player at PSG, having finally won the Champions League last year. For Brazil, he holds an Olympic gold medal and Copa América title, but the World Cup has remained elusive for 24 years. Now, he must lead this star-studded team to reclaim the trophy and earn a sixth star.

Poised in Defense

Marquinhos has established himself as one of the world’s best center-backs, known for his discipline and composure under pressure. He avoids reckless tackles but plays physically when needed, while initiating attacks with crisp passing and through balls. His primary role is as the quarterback of the defense.

However, his tendency to fade in big matches has been a lingering concern. While PSG’s Champions League triumph last year helped dispel some doubts, this weakness remains Brazil’s Achilles’ heel until they meet expectations on the global stage.

International Experience

Marquinhos made his Brazil debut in November 2013 but missed the 2014 World Cup on home soil. He debuted in the 2018 tournament, playing just one minute in the Round of 16 win over Mexico. In the 2022 World Cup, he started all but one group-stage match before Brazil fell to Croatia on penalties in the quarterfinals.

To date, Marquinhos has earned 104 caps for Brazil, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.

Brazil at the 2026 World Cup

Brazil enters the tournament with one expectation: to win. Every missed opportunity heightens the pressure, and this year’s drought—now the longest in their history—must end in New Jersey on July 19.

While Brazil remains a favorite, they are no longer the prohibitive pick this time. Marquinhos will be expected to lead them to the title, embracing the pressure with the hope of securing eternal glory as the latest captain to lift the World Cup trophy for the Seleção.

Brazil vs. Morocco — June 13 — 6 p.m. ET