Emerging Talents: Marquinhos of AS Roma

Name:	Marquinhos
Date of Birth:	May 14, 1994
Height:	183cm
Nationality:	Brazilian
Club:	Arsenal FC
Position:	Defender

Serie A giants AS Roma secured the signature of Marcos Aoás Corrêa (commonly known as Marquinhos) in July of 2012 from Corinthians. Born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Marquinhos spent nearly ten years at his home club before moving abroad.

Since arriving in Italy, the Brazilian defender hasn’t looked back. Despite only being eighteen years old, Marquinhos displays the intelligence, ability, and composure of a veteran on a regular basis. He’s now solidified his spot in Roma’s back four and doesn’t look to be going anywhere anytime soon.

So what makes the six foot central defender so good? Though not the bulkiest or biggest center back in the game, Marquinho’s strengths lie in his agility and ability to move his hips quickly and efficiently. Opposition attackers find it very difficult to get past the former U17 Brazil International because of his ability to recover. Not only is he quick, but he reads the game very well and isn’t afraid to go into a tackle either.

Technically speaking, he is comfortable on the ball as many Brazilians are and is dynamic with his passing. He has fantastic energy levels and has proven week in and week out that he will be a star in the very near future. He may have only made six appearances for Corinthians before the Brazilian club sold him to Roma, but he’s now made 22 appearances in Serie A to date and looks to secure more as the season comes to an end.

Have you seen Marquinhos play? Let us know what your observations and thoughts below…