This Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 3:11 p.m. local time in Paris, shocking news shook the football world: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) captain Marquinhos officially announced his departure for AS Roma after the end of the FIFA Club World Cup. This decision, confirmed by president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in an explosive statement, marks the end of an era for the Brazilian defender at PSG, where he spent ten years and won numerous titles. Al-Khelaifi revealed that the transfer was completed with the player currently considered the best central defender in Europe, for a record fee of €120 million, news that plunged Parisian fans into indescribable joy.
Marquinhos, 30, has been a pillar of PSG’s defense since his arrival in 2013 from AS Roma, ironically. His return to the Italian capital marks a closing of his career circle, but also an opportunity to take on a new challenge with the Giallorossi. The news has been greeted with enthusiasm by AS Roma fans, who see him as a leader capable of stabilizing an often-criticized defense. However, for Parisian supporters, the loss is a blow, although the transfer fee offers a breath of fresh air for the summer transfer window.
Al-Khelaifi emphasized that the deal was negotiated with impressive speed, taking advantage of the window open after the FIFA Club World Cup, which ends on July 13. The president also hinted that the colossal sum will be reinvested to strengthen the squad, perhaps with a world-class defender to replace Marquinhos. In Hanoi, where the popularity of European football is growing, Vietnamese fans are following the move with fascination, passionately discussing the implications for both clubs on social media.
Marquinhos’s departure raises questions about PSG’s future under Luis Enrique, who will have to rebuild a solid defense for the 2025-26 season. Meanwhile, in Rome, expectations are high for the Brazilian, who will have to prove he can still dominate at a high level. Fans on both sides are already eager to see how this record-breaking transfer will impact their respective teams. With the money in his pocket and a new adventure in sight, Marquinhos leaves Paris on a bittersweet note, leaving behind an undeniable legacy, while AS Roma prepares to welcome back one of its prodigal sons.
