Ranking PSG's 5 best captains in the 21st century

PSG have only grown in terms of their squad strength, financial pull and success over the past decade. They have ruthlessly dominated the French top flight and have turned into a European superpower since their Qatari takeover in 2011. Trophies have followed them ever since, with a plethora of superstars and unprecedented glamor.

PSG boast one of Europe's best squads at the moment. They remain a top contender in the French top flight and in the UEFA Champions League. The Parisian club have always shown their financial might in order to meet their lofty ambitions. They still hold the record for the most expensive transfer when they bought Neymar from Barcelona for €222 million in 2017.

As a result, they are fortunate to witness numerous world class players don their blue kit and grace the Parc Des Princes with their presence.

Amidst numerous footballers, Les Parisiens have also seen some great leaders play for them. On that note, let us take a look at

PSG's 5 best captains of the 21st century

---

#5 Frederic Dehu

Sylvain Legwinski and Frederic Dehu

Frederic Dehu might not be a stellar name but he had a massive impact in the early 2000s for PSG. Dehu joined PSG in 2000 after stints at Lens and Barcelona and spent four years in the French capital. The Parisian club endured difficult times back then and Dehu did a fantastic job of leading them back to their best.

Dehu was a stellar defender whose aggressive presence on the pitch made him a natural leader. He was a reliable presence in the PSG backline and demonstrated his caliber with some majestic displays. The French centre-back made 167 appearances for PSG, leading them to the Coupe de France in his final season at the club.

---

#4 Marquinhos

Real Madrid v Paris Saint-Germain: Group A - UEFA Champions League

Marquinhos is the current commander of the PSG squad, taking over the reins following Thiago Silva's departure in 2020. His composure and calm demeanor at the heart of defense makes him an asset and a valuable leader for the club.

There is no doubt regarding Marquinhos' quality as a defender. The Brazilian has proven his versatility, often featuring as a right-back, centre-back and even in midfield at times. He is also strong in the air and an excellent tackler which makes him one of the best defenders on the planet.

In addition to his defensive prowess, Marquinhos also excels at passing with his wide passing range and vision to pick out his teammates. Unfortunately, PSG are yet to taste glory under the Brazilian's leadership. But they remain the favorites to dominate this campaign.

#3 Claude Makelele

Paris Saint-Germain FC v Marseille Olympic OM - French Cup

The pioneer of the 'Makelele role' was Claude Makelele, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive midfielders in football history. After enjoying immense success throughout his career, Makelele joined PSG in 2008during the twilight years of his career.

Despite his old age, Makelele proved to be a crucial player for PSG. The French midfielder made 118 appearances for the Parisian club, demostrating his caliber in breaking down opponents' attacks. He used his experience to stamp his authority on matches and become a leader at the club.

Under Makelele's leadership, PSG managed to win the Coupe de France in the 2009-10 campaign. The legendary defensive-midfielder again proved to be a capable leader and acted as a mentor for the youth. Due to his exploits, Makelele was also appointed as an assistant manager to his former boss Carlo Ancelotti.

---

#2 Pedro Pauleta

Emirates Cup

Pauleta was one of the greatest goalscorers in PSG's history, cementing his place as one of the legendary players to play for the club. The Portuguese marksman left an incredible legacy, scoring 109 goals for PSG during his five-season tenure at the club.

Pauleta was immediately a fan favorite with his exploits in front of goal. He was not only a prolific goalscorer but also technically proficient with the ball. The Portuguese legend was a threat to be reckoned with and a nightmare for defenders.

Pauleta helped PSG dominate the Coupe de France for a couple of seasons and was a capable leader. Despite not having the best of teams, Pauleta retired as the club's record goalscorer before Zlatan Ibrahimovic surpassed him.

---

#1 Thiago Silva

Club Brugge KV v Paris Saint-Germain: Group A - UEFA Champions League

One of the greatest centre-backs of the modern generation, Thiago Silva etched his name on PSG's history books. The Brazilian arrived for a then-world record fee of €42 million in 2012. During his eight-year tenure in the French capital, he proved to be worth every penny and much for the Parisians.

Thiago Silva was a rock at the back for PSG, forging great partnerships with each of his defensive partners during his stint. He was a complete package and possessed every essential trait of a great defender.

With 315 appearances under his belt, Silva is eighth on the list of highest all-time appearances and is the club's longest serving captain. The centre-back led the Ligue 1 giants to unprecedented glory, winning seven league titles among other notable accolades.