Gérson is considered one of the best passers in World Cup history. Although he didn't play well in 1966, he was the mastermind behind the whole Brazilian national team in the 1970 tournament. He is regarded as the best passer and midfielder in that edition of that World Cup, in that Brazilian squad, and the best player in the 4–1 victory against Italy in the final. Overall, he played 70 times for Brazil, scoring 14 goals for his country, including one in that 1970 World Cup final.