Roque Júnior

Roque Júnior was one of the best Brazilian centre-backs of the 2000s and a World Cup champion with the Brazilian national team in 2002. Born in Catanduva, in the interior of São Paulo, on June 14, 1976, the defender built a remarkable career in Brazil and Europe. Forged in Palmeiras' youth categories, Roque Júnior established himself as a starter for the São Paulo club and was a key piece in memorable conquests, including the Copa Libertadores in 1999. His performances caught the attention of major European clubs, leading him to AC Milan in 2001, where he played alongside icons such as Maldini, Shevchenko, and Pirlo. The pinnacle of his career came in the 2002 World Cup, held in Japan and South Korea, when he was part of the five-time champion Brazilian national team's defense. Forming a partnership with Lúcio, Roque Júnior was instrumental in the campaign that brought Brazil's fifth world title. He ended his European phase after spells at Leeds United and Bayer Leverkusen. He returned to Brazil where he still played for São Paulo, Grêmio, Atlético Mineiro and other clubs, ending his career with the status of one of the greatest centre-backs in recent Brazilian football history.