Marquinhos says a single season at Roma under coach Zdenek Zeman reshaped his defensive game, teaching timing, offside strategy and tactical awareness. The PSG captain credits Italian football and figures like Thiago Silva, Thiago Motta and Maxwell for honing the tactical side that helped Paris defend through a 2-0 away win at Liverpool and reach the Champions League semifinals.
Marquinhos: Zeman and Serie A gave me a tactical edge
Marquinhos reflected on his 2012-13 season at Roma, saying Italy opened the door to Europe and forced him out of his comfort zone. He singled out coach Zdenek Zeman’s emphasis on timing, offside and reading when the ball is covered or uncovered as formative lessons that “taught me so much.”
What those lessons look like on the pitch
Zeman’s drills and tactical focus translated into concrete habits: sharper anticipation, disciplined offside execution and an increased comfort with tactical instruction. Marquinhos also credits former teammates at PSG — Thiago Silva, Thiago Motta and Maxwell — for reinforcing those lessons and accelerating his tactical development.
Liverpool win underlines PSG’s defensive maturity
Paris Saint-Germain’s 2-0 away victory at Liverpool that secured a Champions League semi place showcased that growth. Marquinhos explained the game plan: deny Liverpool second balls and avoid a battle on their terms, accept physical moments and defend resolutely when required.
Leadership in the trenches
Marquinhos’ comments underline his role as more than a ball-playing centre-back: he’s PSG’s defensive conductor when the team must grind out results. His ability to marshal a backline in high-pressure ties has become a defining trait of the reigning champions.
Broader implications for PSG’s Champions League run
PSG enter the semifinals as defending champions — fresh off a dominant 5-0 win over Inter in the 2024-25 final — and will face either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid next. The Italian-influenced tactical discipline Marquinhos describes adds a valuable, less glamorous layer to a squad often defined by attacking star power.
Why it matters
Elite knockout ties are decided by fine margins and moments of defensive resolve. Marquinhos’ Serie A education brings tactical subtlety and mental toughness that complement PSG’s quality going forward. If Paris are to repeat as champions, their ability to defend intelligently and suffer through tough spells will be as decisive as their attacking flash.
What to watch next
Observe PSG’s organization in transition moments, offside traps, and set-piece defending in the semis.
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Marquinhos’ leadership and the tactical DNA he credits to Italy will be central to whether Paris can convert individual brilliance into sustained European success.
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