Leaders, back-ups and youth: Palmeiras have six defensive options | OneFootball

Palmeiras will have different options to set up its defensive system during the second half of 2026. Between established leaders, players looking to prove themselves, and youngsters developed in the youth academy, coach Abel Ferreira will have six center-back options: Gustavo Gómez, Murilo, Bruno Fuchs, Barboza, Benedetti, and Kone.

The pairing of Gustavo Gómez and Murilo remains the sector’s main reference point. Starters for much of the past few years and key figures in the club’s recent titles, both performed well in the first half of 2026 and are looking to maintain that high level for the rest of the season.

Right behind them come Bruno Fuchs and Barboza. After a positive 2025 season, Fuchs was signed permanently by Palmeiras and now needs to justify the trust placed in him by the club. The defender knows Abel Ferreira’s style of play and emerges as one of the first alternatives to the starting duo.

Barboza, meanwhile, recently arrived at Verdão and is beginning the adaptation process at the club. The center-back increases competition in the position and will have the second half of the year to fight for space in Abel’s team.

Among the options coming from the youth academy, Benedetti and Kone complete the list. Benedetti is already part of the first-team routine, but at the moment he is behind the more experienced players in the battle for minutes.

Kone, on the other hand, is surrounded by high expectations internally. The Ivorian center-back is seen as a player with plenty of potential and is looking to seize his opportunities to jump the queue and earn space among the Portuguese coach’s options.

With six alternatives at different stages and with different characteristics, Palmeiras begins the second half of the season with a deep defensive unit. Amid the fight for the Brazilian Championship, Copa do Brasil, and Libertadores, the squad’s depth will be important for Abel Ferreira to manage the run of matches and possible absences due to injuries, suspensions, and physical wear.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.