New generation steps up: Palmeiras enters era of new leaders | OneFootball

The overhaul promoted by Palmeiras in the last transfer windows went beyond what happens on the pitch. Verdão is also going through a renewal in its leadership group. While Gustavo Gómez remains the great captain and the squad’s main reference point, other players are beginning to take on a leading role behind the scenes at the Academia de Futebol.

With the departure of experienced players who marked an era at the club, leadership has come to be shared between names that were already established and signings brought in precisely for their leadership qualities.

The main leader continues to be Gustavo Gómez. Captain since 2020, the Paraguayan center-back remains the most respected voice in the squad, bringing together experience, titles, and the competitive profile that has become a trademark of Abel Ferreira’s Palmeiras.

Another important name is Marcelo Lomba. Even while playing less, the goalkeeper has a fundamental role in the group’s day-to-day. One of the most experienced players in the squad, he is constantly pointed to as a reference in the dressing room, mainly for his support of younger players.

Among the starters, Piquerez and Murilo have also increasingly grown into natural leadership roles. Both are enjoying their most mature moments at the club, have accumulated important achievements, and take on responsibilities both during training and in matches.

Signed for the 2026 season, Marlon Freitas arrived at Palmeiras carrying precisely that reputation. In addition to his technical quality, the midfielder has always been seen as a player with personality, communicative, and capable of organizing the team on the field — characteristics that weighed in his signing.

Another signing who is already showing this profile is Alexander Barboza. In his introductory interview, the center-back highlighted that leadership is part of his personality, stating that he likes to guide his teammates during matches and take responsibility when necessary.

The change is happening gradually, but it shows that Palmeiras is working to maintain a winning culture even as the squad is renewed.

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