Ex-Palmeiras duo lead Grêmio rebuild, with Weverton starting and Marcos Rocha a dressing-room guide | OneFootball

Grêmio face Palmeiras on Thursday as the Brasileirão resumes after the Fifa break, with former Palmeiras pair Weverton and Marcos Rocha now leading figures in Porto Alegre.

According to Globo.com, both were recruited during periods of squad restructuring, became reference points for the new team and saw the move to Porto Alegre as a chance to extend their careers after losing prominence at the São Paulo club.

As Palmeiras mainstays they won three Brazilian league titles, one Copa do Brasil and two Libertadores, alongside state honours. This year they are again sharing travel, training and matches for Grêmio late in their careers.

Weverton arrived this year to be first choice, signing through the end of 2028. At 38, he matched the wishes of the board and Luís Castro for experience in goal, and he quickly became an assertive presence, often addressing the group before and after matches.

Marcos Rocha’s leadership is also valued. The right-back came in August last year during a difficult spell, with João Pedro injured and centre-back Gustavo Martins regularly filling in on the flank. Then-coach Mano Menezes felt established names were needed to lift morale and support younger players, and Rocha made 12 starts in 2025.

Unlike Weverton, his minutes have since shrunk under the Portuguese coach, and he has not featured for 10 games. On the pitch, forward Pavon has been used at right-back while Rocha waits on the bench. The 37-year-old is contracted until the end of 2026.

Another ex-Palmeiras player, left-back Caio Paulista, joined on loan this year and remains tied to Palmeiras until December 2028. He is not expected to face his parent club because a fee would be required for him to play. He had been Castro’s option with Marlon injured.

Source: Globo.com