At 32, Marquinhos is reportedly captain of both Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil. His expected partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes would give Brazil experience and authority in central defence.
The report also says PSG have just retained their Ligue 1 and Champions League titles under Luis Enrique. That momentum strengthens Marquinhos’ position, but his value to Brazil goes beyond club form. He is expected to organise the defensive line, manage difficult moments and provide leadership in a squad built to challenge for the trophy.
His role is clear from the opening whistle. Brazil do not need to discover where he fits; they need him to deliver at his established level.
Lee’s international case is built on influence rather than guaranteed selection. The report says he has often been used as an impact substitute by PSG, despite producing important moments for South Korea.
He assisted against Ghana at the 2022 World Cup, while reports also point to a goal contribution in each of his final three 2025 World Cup qualifiers. Those trends give him a strong claim, even with Heung-min Son remaining South Korea’s central attacking figure.
The tactical test is straightforward: can Lee affect matches from the first whistle, not only after entering from the bench?
Marquinhos offers leadership, defensive security and continuity. Lee offers creativity, progression and the possibility of an attacking handover. One is already central to his team’s structure; the other is trying to make that structure revolve around him.
South Korea’s first lineup and Brazil’s opening defensive pairing will provide the clearest answer.