Roger Machado Marques: The Brazilian Football Coach
Roger Machado Marques is a prominent figure in Brazilian football. As a former player and current coach, he has built a career marked by on-field achievements and challenges on the sidelines. Born in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Roger stood out as a left-back during his playing days and later transitioned to coaching some of Brazil’s most traditional clubs. His journey reflects the passion for the sport that captivates millions of Brazilians, with stints at clubs like Grêmio, Fluminense, and currently Internacional. This article explores his life, career, and contributions to football.
Early Life and Development
Roger Machado Marques was born on April 25, 1975, in Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul. He grew up in a region where football is more than a game—it’s a deeply rooted cultural tradition, especially with the fierce rivalry between Grêmio and Internacional. From a young age, Roger showed talent for the sport. At 16, in 1991, he joined Grêmio’s youth academy, where he spent three years developing as a player.
His development wasn’t limited to the pitch. Roger always valued education and continuous learning, which later influenced his coaching approach. During his youth, he faced challenges common to many Brazilian athletes: the pressure for quick results and the need to balance studies with intense training. In 1994, at 19, he was promoted to Grêmio’s first team, marking the start of a promising career. This early phase shaped his disciplined character and tactical understanding of the game, qualities that would define his career.
Playing Career
Roger’s playing career was long and successful, particularly at Grêmio, where he became an icon. As a left-back, he was known for his defensive solidity, ability to support the attack, and leadership on the field. He played over 500 professional matches, scored key goals, and won titles that cemented his place in Brazilian football history.
At Grêmio
Roger debuted for Grêmio in 1994 and stayed until 2003, playing 404 matches and scoring 4 goals, reflecting his consistency. During this period, Grêmio enjoyed a golden era, and Roger was a key figure. He helped the club win the 1995 Copa Libertadores, one of the greatest achievements in Grêmio’s history. He also won the 1996 Brazilian Championship, the 1997 Recopa Sudamericana, and multiple Campeonato Gaúcho titles (1994, 1995, 1999). His crossing ability and defensive reliability made him indispensable.
In 1999, Grêmio also won the Copa Sul, with Roger playing in decisive matches. Fans admired his dedication and team spirit. Many considered him one of Brazil’s best left-backs in the 1990s, alongside names like Roberto Carlos.
Abroad
After a decade at Grêmio, Roger sought new challenges overseas. In 2004, he joined Vissel Kobe in Japan, where he played for two seasons, making 58 appearances and scoring 5 goals. He adapted well to a more technical and disciplined style of football. This international experience broadened his perspective, exposing him to different cultures and training methods. In Japan, he overcame language barriers and the fast-paced nature of matches, strengthening his resilience.
At Fluminense
Returning to Brazil in 2006, Roger signed with Fluminense, where he played until 2008. In 123 matches, he scored 10 goals, including a memorable one in the 2007 Copa do Brasil final against Figueirense. That goal secured the title for the Tricolor Carioca, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer in big moments. At Fluminense, he thrived despite constant pressure, delivering consistent performances.
In 2009, Roger had a brief stint with D.C. United in the United States, but lower back issues forced him to retire prematurely at 34. He left a legacy of professionalism.
Brazilian National Team
Roger’s time with the Brazilian national team was modest but notable. In 2001, he played one match without scoring. Though not a regular, his call-up reflected his talent on the international stage.
Transition to Coaching
After retiring, Roger stayed connected to football. In 2011, he returned to Grêmio as an assistant coach, learning the intricacies of team management. He took charge as interim coach twice, winning clásicos against Internacional. This transitional phase was crucial: Roger studied tactics, analyzed matches, and developed a philosophy based on balance between defense and attack.
In 2014, he took his first head coaching role at Juventude, marking the start of a journey filled with highs and lows.
Coaching Career
As a coach, Roger Machado has gained experience at clubs across Brazil. His style emphasizes defensive organization, quick transitions, and collective play. By March 2025, he has managed 419 matches, with 203 wins, 111 draws, and 105 losses, achieving a 57.28% win rate. His career reflects persistence and constant adaptation.
Early Days
Roger began at Juventude in 2014 but was sacked in July due to inconsistent results. He then coached Novo Hamburgo, achieving 12 wins in 32 matches, a 53.13% win rate. These early experiences prepared him for bigger challenges.
At Grêmio
In May 2015, Roger took charge of Grêmio’s first team, staying until September 2016. His highlight was a historic 5-0 win in the Grenal 407 clásico. He implemented an attacking style but left after a poor run.
In February 2022, he returned to Grêmio in Série B, achieving the third-longest unbeaten streak in the competition’s history (17 matches). However, he was sacked in September.
Atlético Mineiro
In 2017, Roger coached Atlético Mineiro, winning the Campeonato Mineiro. In 43 matches, he secured 23 wins, with a 60.47% win rate. His tenure was positive, marked by a competitive team.
Palmeiras
At Palmeiras in 2018, Roger managed 44 matches, winning 27 with a career-best 68.18% win rate. However, he was sacked in July after cup eliminations.
Bahia
From 2019 to 2020, Roger coached Bahia, winning the 2019 Campeonato Baiano. In 74 matches, he had 30 wins and a 50.45% win rate. He promoted local talent and played dynamic football.
Fluminense
In February 2021, Roger returned to Fluminense, staying until August. In 42 matches, he secured 19 wins with a 53.49% win rate. He stabilized the team but won no titles.
Juventude and Internacional
In January 2024, Roger returned to Juventude, resigning in July. On July 18, 2024, he was announced as Internacional’s coach, with a contract until December 2025. In March 2025, he won the Campeonato Gaúcho unbeaten, ending Grêmio’s seven-year title streak. The team showed defensive solidity.
However, in August 2025, Internacional faced challenges. On August 20, they were eliminated from the Copa Libertadores by Flamengo, losing 0-2 at Beira-Rio (3-0 aggregate). Post-match, Roger said, “I don’t think our team lacked effort. Flamengo is in better form than Internacional. We lacked sharpness.” The elimination increased pressure on him, with fans divided. Some support his representativeness and work, while others criticize recent results.
Coaching Achievements
As a coach, Roger has won regional titles: Campeonato Mineiro (2017, Atlético Mineiro), Campeonato Baiano (2019, Bahia), and Campeonato Gaúcho (2025, Internacional). These victories highlight his ability to motivate teams in regional competitions, though national titles remain a pending goal.
Playing Style and Philosophy
Roger’s coaching philosophy is balanced, prioritizing organized defense and fast counterattacks. He values tactical discipline and youth development. In interviews, he emphasizes the collective over individual stars. His humane approach, considering players’ well-being, sets him apart. He also addresses social issues like racism in football, promoting inclusion.
Personal Life
Roger keeps his personal life private. Married with children, he resides in Porto Alegre when possible. Outside football, he enjoys reading about history and sports tactics. His humble roots make him sensitive to social issues, and he participates in community initiatives in Rio Grande do Sul.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Roger Machado’s legacy is one of perseverance. As a player, he symbolizes Grêmio’s victorious era; as a coach, he represents the evolution of former players in management. At 50, in August 2025, he faces pressure at Internacional but has the experience to recover. His future may include bigger clubs or even the national team. Roger continues to inspire generations, proving football is a journey of constant learning.
