The Brasileirão 2023 was one of the best editions of all time and featured top-notch talents. Below, we will share a bit more about the selection of the best players in Brasileirão 2023, as well as information about the squad members, who were chosen based on polls conducted on our Instagram.
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Index
TOTY Brasileirão 2023
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As we can see in the image above, it’s quite a selection, arranged in a 4-3-3 formation with players who had a majestic championship. Below, we will explain the criteria for selecting the team and discuss a bit about the performance of each selected player in the tournament.
Selection Criteria
Firstly, our team opted for the 4-3-3 formation, as it would allow for great matchups position by position. It’s worth noting that the three midfielders consist of a defensive midfielder, a central midfielder, and an attacking midfielder, while in the attack, there are three forwards, who can be wingers, center-forwards, or second strikers.
Next, three players were chosen for each position, and polls were conducted on Calcio Deal’s Instagram. The players with the most votes in each position were then included in the Brasileirão 2023 Selection, and it’s safe to say that our followers chose only football maestros.
The Players
Goalkeeper – Weverton, Palmeiras
This is the first Brasileirão Selection made by Calcio Deal, but Weverton is a regular in these types of selections. After all, since 2018, he has been recognized by at least one media outlet as the best goalkeeper in Brasileirão.
This accumulation of awards and honors is not by chance. With a sense of positioning bordering on perfection, coupled with excellent height and wingspan, unique speed, and reflexes, Weverton is a complete goalkeeper and one of the pillars of Verdão. He has helped the club secure Brasileirão titles in 2018, 2022, and 2023, among many other achievements.
In Brasileirão 2023, Weverton once again demonstrated that he is the best goalkeeper in action in Brazil and one of the most decisive. Throughout the competition, he conceded only 30 goals and made the most crucial save of the championship. It was the save that kept Palmeiras in the title race, the one where he denied Tiquinho Soares’ penalty, preventing Botafogo from scoring their fourth goal. Following his save, Palmeiras secured a historic comeback, winning 4-3, which was pivotal for clinching the title.
With this title, Weverton further solidified his position as the goalkeeper with the most titles for Palestra Itália, boasting a total of 11, and he equaled the legendary Leão as the goalkeeper with the most Brazilian Championship titles, with 3.
There was no way Weverton could be left out of the Calcio Deal Brasileirão 2023 Selection. He is synonymous with security and the orchestrator of numerous miracles.
Right-Back – Samuel Xavier, Fluminense
After a tight competition with Palmeiras’ Mayke, Calcio Deal followers elected Samuel Xavier as the best right-back of Brasileirão 2023. It’s certain that Samuel stood out significantly for the season he had, playing a crucial role in Fluminense’s triumph in the Libertadores.
Samuel Xavier made his Brasileirão debut in 2015 while playing for Sport Recife, and since then, he has proven to be an extremely determined and consistent right-back. He has evolved with each season, showcasing versatility, especially due to his intensity and quick forays into attack.
Since joining Fluminense in 2021, it’s evident that Samuel has continued to evolve alongside the team, which has adopted a unique style of play. Samuel is intelligent in filling and attacking spaces, solid defensively, and one of the most important factors in Flu’s ball distribution, whether it’s creating openings or playing out from the back, finding breakthrough passes.
In Brasileirão 2023, Samuel scored 1 goal, provided 1 assist, and stood out for his efficiency and intensity, particularly in passing. The tricolor right-back boasted an impressive 87.5% pass accuracy in the tournament, completed 72% of the dribbles attempted, and made a total of 100 interceptions in 25 games played—a remarkable average of 4 interceptions per game.
Indeed, Samuel deserved his place in the Calcio Deal Brasileirão 2023 Selection. However, we must especially commend his overall season, where he played a crucial role in Fluminense’s long-awaited triumph in the Libertadores.
Right Center-Back – Gustavo Gómez, Palmeiras
He, the green and white sheriff, could not be excluded from the Brasileirão 2023 selection, even with a season of ups and downs, which is not typical for the Paraguayan star. Gómez is a crucial part of the backbone of Abel Ferreira’s fantastic Palmeiras and was instrumental in securing the title, whether on or off the field, serving as a natural leader and capable of inspiring his teammates at every moment.
The green and white captain showcased great versatility in Brasileirão 2023, playing in a back four on the right when Murilo was his partner and on the left when alongside Luan. When the defensive system shifted to a back three, he played on the right and in the center. In moments of need, when Palmeiras was chasing a result, he even pushed forward and acted as a striker.
Known for precise tackles, interceptions, and almost perfect aerial play, Gustavo Gómez has been one of, if not the best, center-backs in action in Brazil since 2018. He has been instrumental in all of Palestra Itália’s victories since then. This season was no different; he even became the second-highest-scoring center-back in Palmeiras’ history.
Gómez contributed with 2 goals and 2 assists in the title-winning campaign, displaying excellent skills with the ball at his feet. He had a passing accuracy of 87%, completed 53.5% of his long passes, and succeeded in 60% of defensive duels and 57% of aerial duels. He also made 125 interceptions throughout Brasileirão 2023.
The green and white sheriff is one of the biggest names in Brazilian football currently, and with a fantastic season, he earned the title of the best right center-back in Brasileirão 2023.
Left Center-Back – Beraldo – São Paulo
The talent of this young player with the skills of a seasoned veteran is immense. Beraldo is the only player who made it onto the Brasileirão 2023 revelations list and was elected to the championship’s selection.
Possessing an impressive understanding of the game, Beraldo is one of the most technically gifted center-backs in Brazilian football. It seems like he has eyes on the back of his head, delivering passes, breakthroughs, and unexpected switches that catch everyone off guard. Additionally, he has a unique sense of positioning, the kind of defender any team would desire.
Despite his team facing significant challenges in the competition, the São Paulo gem stood out and garnered attention from the entire football world. Unfortunately, it seems that this will be Beraldo’s last Brasileirão for quite some time, as the youngster has the potential to build a beautiful career in Europe.
Beraldo’s statistics in the tournament are impressive. The 20-year-old center-back has adult-like numbers, with a pass accuracy of 90.8%, completing 60.5% of his long passes. In the few instances he attempted dribbles, he succeeded in 80% of them. He won 61% of duels and 55.3% of aerial duels, and he scored a goal for Tricolor in the most fiercely contested league in the world.
Beraldo is part of the Calcio Deal Brasileirão 2023 Selection and one of the brightest prospects that Brazilian football holds for the future.
Left-Back – Joaquín Piquerez, Palmeiras
The tireless Uruguayan full-back had the best season of his career in 2023. Piquerez epitomizes the modern full-back – tall, strong, intense, with good passing ability, tactical awareness, speed, and defensive solidity. In this season, he significantly improved his finishing, a crucial element in helping Verdão secure the Brasileirão 2023 title.
Joaquín Piquerez commands the left side of the field. When playing in a back four, he leans more towards defensive duties, but in a 3-5-2 formation, he becomes a constant threat on the wing and can also surprise opponents by cutting inside for combinations and long-distance shots, exemplified by the fantastic goal he scored in the 5-0 victory against São Paulo.
The full-back has shown season after season exponential improvement, making him one of Palmeiras’ standout players, particularly in this campaign.
In Brasileirão 2023, Piquerez scored 3 goals and provided 5 assists. He made 124 interceptions, won 54% of duels, and 55.5% of aerial duels. His intensity on the field was his trademark in the Brazilian league, always pushing forward to reach the byline, attempting to build through the middle, and showcasing textbook defensive recoveries.
It could only be him – the Uruguayan, the best left-back of Brasileirão 2023.
Defensive Midfielder – Zé Rafael, Palmeiras
And the “trem” (train) is in the Calcio Deal Brasileirão 2023 Selection. This nickname is not by chance; Zé Rafael possesses enviable physical vigor and delivers robust tackles. This season, he reinvented himself. After the sale of the jewel Danilo to Nottingham Forest, Portuguese coach Abel Ferreira saw in “trem” the qualities to be the first midfielder for Alviverde.
Zé Rafael joined Palmeiras in 2019 after an excellent stint with Bahia. In his first season, he struggled to adapt and was frequently used as an attacking midfielder, right winger, and left winger. However, with the arrival of Vanderlei Luxemburgo, the strong and technical player began to be employed as a second midfielder—a move crucial to his career. After all, he is intense, marks well, has an excellent shot from medium and long distances, and possesses impeccable vision.
In the 2023 season, Zé had to adjust his positioning and was used as the first midfielder in almost every game he played. From the outset, the “trem,” recognized for his grit, determination, and physical strength, excelled in the position, delivering precise tackles and timely arrivals. He became one of the key players in Palmeiras’ ball distribution.
Even in a deeper role, Zé did not shy away from attacking and creating opportunities for his teammates. He was the author of one of the most crucial goals in Brasileirão 2023, sealing the 2-2 draw against Fortaleza on the 35th matchday. At that time, Palmeiras was a man down and fought for the draw to stay atop the league.
Zé Rafael is a complete player, with a unique tactical awareness, reading offensive and defensive plays exceptionally well. He passes and shoots well with both feet and has a solid aerial presence.
The “trem” is undoubtedly one of Palmeiras’ most important players and was a fundamental part of the 2023 title triumph.
Zé contributed with 3 goals and 3 assists in this campaign, and his statistics confirm his versatility. He had an 88.2% passing accuracy, 68.9% accuracy in long passes, succeeded in 56.5% of the dribbles attempted, won 52.9% of defensive duels, and executed a total of 109 interceptions.
Midfielder – Gerson, Flamengo
The Joker once again displayed his capability, genius, flair, and versatility on the field. After his return to Flamengo at the beginning of the season, Gerson seemed to be a different player, struggling to find his rhythm and form on the field. However, as time passed, the midfielder started to regain his form and play the type of football we know.
With fantastic ball control, quick turns, bewildering dribbles, and pinpoint passes, combined with his ability to play in various positions, Gerson was the standout player for Flamengo in this Brasileirão, especially when the team started to hit its stride.
The arrival of Tite at Flamengo was crucial for Gerson to reach his full potential on the field. The coach understood that he couldn’t confine the Joker to a single role, so he frequently utilized the midfielder in different positions, constantly swapping positions, especially with Everton Ribeiro on the right-wing.
Gerson is one of those players blessed with the gift of skill, sticking the ball to his feet and finding solutions in tight spaces with dribbles and passes. He also has a very consistent attacking presence and precise finishing, traits developed from his early career as a winger.
In Brasileirão 2023, Gerson scored 5 goals and provided 5 assists, with an 87.6% passing efficiency and 72.9% accuracy in long passes. He successfully dribbled past opponents 56.6% of the time, having an excellent campaign.
When the motivated Joker is on the field, there’s no stopping him. He is one of the best midfielders in Brazilian football, and he unquestionably deserved his place in the Calcio Deal Brasileirão 2023 Selection.
Attacking Midfielder – Raphael Veiga, Palmeiras
The star of the past Brasileirão had another outstanding season for Verdão. Raphael Veiga is the main offensive weapon for Palmeiras, orchestrating the game, finding his teammates in open spaces, and scoring goals. He is a goal-scoring midfielder and one of the top players in action in Brazil.
Raphael Veiga took some time to find his groove at Palmeiras, but under the guidance of Abel Ferreira, he gained more confidence to refine and showcase his talents. His left foot caresses the ball like few others in football, and he has a vast repertoire of finishes and passes. Additionally, he carries the ball well, reads attacking plays, and moves across the entire offensive field.
Veiga arrives as a surprise element for medium-distance shots, breaking the stereotype that left-footed players struggle to finish with their right. He is an offensive midfielder who scores goals and provides assists.
In Brasileirão 2023, Veiga scored 9 goals and provided 8 assists. He attempted 82 shots, hitting the target with 34.1% accuracy, completed 81.6% of his passes, and 65.9% of his long passes. He also showcased excellent crossing efficiency with a 42.4% success rate. When it comes to dribbling, Veiga excels, completing 64.3% of the dribbles he attempted in the tournament.
Veiga is a key figure in Palmeiras’ offensive phase, orchestrating the game, scoring goals, and providing assists. He had a remarkable Brasileirão 2023 and once again stands as one of the best players in Brazil.
Forward – Hulk, Atlético Mineiro
The incredible Hulk had a memorable season, internationally renowned for his physical strength and powerful left-footed shot, and each season he shows that these are not his only characteristics.
Hulk can play in all attacking positions, but he stands out more when playing facing the goal, where his rapid sprints, dribbles, and strong, precise finishes are amplified.
Since his return to Brazil, Hulk has consistently been one of the season’s highlights. Despite his strength and size, Hulk is very agile with the ball, capable of short and long dribbles to beat his opponents, and he serves his teammates well with excellent vision.
As we know, finishing is his greatest strength, especially with his left foot, even in set pieces, as demonstrated by the stunning goal he scored against São Paulo at Morumbi from almost midfield.
Hulk has impressive numbers in Brasileirão 2023, scoring 15 goals and providing 11 assists. As a natural finisher, he attempted 119 shots during the season, with 40.3% of them on target. Additionally, Hulk was responsible for some of the most beautiful goals of the championship, creating at least three works of art.
The incredible Hulk is one of the biggest characters in Brazilian football, and with his 15 goals in this edition, he has now reached a total of 46 goals in Brazilian Championships since his return.
Forward – Paulinho, Atlético Mineiro
Nothing less than the top scorer of Brasileirão 2023, the left winger who found his groove as the second striker at Atlético Mineiro and had his most prolific season in 2023.
When Paulinho was introduced at Vasco, he was known for his quick dribbles and speed, scoring a goal here and there, but nothing extraordinary. After years in Europe, he returned to Brazil in 2023 and couldn’t have found a better club to enhance all his skills.
While Atlético Mineiro’s season was irregular with several disappointments, Paulinho showed from the beginning what he was capable of. Very fast with the ball at his feet, with fantastic positioning and an effective ability to attack spaces, Paulinho fit like a glove at Galo, especially in the striking duo with Hulk. It seems like the two were born to play together.
In this Brasileirão, Paulinho showcased various qualities such as dribbling, ball control, speed, and especially positioning and finishing. This allowed him to score goals in various ways, and it’s no coincidence that he netted 19.
Paulinho’s season was so impressive that he earned opportunities with the Brazilian national team. If he continues at this pace, he will likely become a regular presence in the yellow jersey.
With 20 goals and 2 assists, he was one of the key figures in Atlético Mineiro’s impeccable second-half campaign. The 23-year-old had an exemplary season that will be remembered for a long time.
Forward – Luis Suárez, Grêmio
Grêmio returned from Serie B and quickly moved in the market to structure the team with the goal of having a great season. The management acted swiftly and brought in El Pistolero Suárez, simply one of, if not the best center-forward of his generation. Tenacious, skillful, with a goal-scoring instinct and a unique finishing ability.
All expectations placed on Luisito were met by the Uruguayan star. El Pistolero had a wonderful season, showing that he is still at a high level and can do things with the ball that only he knows.
Luisito, alongside his teammates, led Grêmio to become the runner-up in Brasileirão 2023, a rare and almost impossible feat for a team recently promoted from Serie B.
Under the guidance of the legendary Renato Gaúcho, the team understood that the key player was Suárez, and they should feed the star with the ball to produce goals. However, Luisito also demonstrated a beautiful understanding of the game and precise passes, always showing a lot of determination and commitment, even in the most challenging moments, when he felt the usual knee discomfort.
It was a pleasure for all football enthusiasts to see Luisito showcasing his unparalleled skills in Brazilian soil. In Brasileirão, Luisito was by far the player with the most involvement in goals, scoring 17 and providing 10 assists, unquestionably the star of Brasileirão 2023.
Luisito has left his mark in the history of Brasileirão, and his time here will never be forgotten.
Manager – Abel Ferreira
For the second consecutive year, Abel Ferreira led Palmeiras to the Brasileirão title. This time, the Portuguese coach faced a more challenging task, especially in finding ways to replace key players who left the team in 2022, such as Gustavo Scarpa and Danilo.
Abel initially moved Zé Rafael to the defensive midfield position and attempted to have Artur play on the right as Scarpa did.
Palmeiras started the Brasileirão season very inconsistently, sometimes playing perfect games and sometimes having forgettable performances. It was only after the elimination in the Libertadores semifinal that they managed to be more consistent and embark on a beautiful winning streak.
Abel is one of the greatest coaches in Brazil and the most enduring, with just over 3 years at the club.
Over time, it became evident that Abel is more than just a coach; he is a natural motivator who can bring out the best in each player. He doesn’t judge people based on their mistakes but rather on their successes and strengths.
At a certain point in the season, Abel had to shift from his traditional 4-3-3 formation to a 3-5-2 and made several changes to the team. The most crucial one was deploying Breno Lopes and Endrick as the striking duo, which was essential for Palmeiras to reach its peak potential and become unbeatable in the final stretch of the season.
Abel earned his second Brasileirão title with merit, discipline, and camaraderie. That’s why he stands as one of the greatest coaches to lead a Brazilian club, continuing to make history year after year.
Written by João Felipe Miller.
