Scherrer Maxwell, former left-back for Brazil (10 caps), Ajax Amsterdam, Inter Milan, FC Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, was invited by L’Equipe to comment on Marquinhos’ captaincy at PSG, having played alongside the 31-year-old defender during his time in Paris from 2013 to 2017 (Maxwell arrived in 2012, Marquinhos in 2013).
Maxwell: “I’m really not surprised to see him still there.”
“There’s a lot of effort and daily work behind all of this to keep his body in top condition. There’s also his intelligence in understanding the game and anticipating; that allows him to always be well-positioned on the pitch. With his technical ability, perfect for PSG’s style of play, he can also anticipate the opponents’ press. For all these reasons, I’m really not surprised to see him still there.” “
Marquinhos is a model of professionalism, as many players and staff members have pointed out. Some seem to forget that being a role model is also part of a captain’s job. His longevity at the highest level doesn’t happen by chance. He makes the necessary effort, always looking out for the team’s best interests. Moreover, we’ve seen him readily accept rotation in order to be at his best on crucial nights. Other players could learn from him.
Of course, the Brazilian international also possesses a very high level of play, which is essential for him to hold a prominent position at PSG and for Brazil. Some media outlets have perpetuated the image of a fragile, almost timid player, as if his success were purely by chance. Yet, Marquinhos clearly possesses undeniable qualities, as Maxwell himself has highlighted.” This includes being comfortable under pressure (a few mistakes now and then don’t call everything into question) and knowing how to impose it on opponents when recovering the ball.
