Brazilian football star Marcelo has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36.
The left-back, known for his skills and achievements, played 58 times for the Brazilian national team.
Marcelo began his career at Fluminense in Brazil before joining Real Madrid in 2007 when he was just 18 years old. During his 15-year spell at the Bernabeu, he won 25 major trophies, including five UEFA Champions League titles and six La Liga titles.
“At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door and I arrived here. Now, I can proudly say that I am a true Madrileno,” Marcelo said in an emotional video on social media.
“Sixteen seasons, 25 titles, five Champions Leagues, one of the captains, and so many magical nights at the Bernabeu. What a journey! My journey as a player ends here, but I still have so much to give to football. Thank you for everything.”
In 2021, Marcelo made history by becoming the first non-Spaniard in 117 years to be named Real Madrid’s club captain.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez praised Marcelo, saying, “Marcelo is one of the greatest left-backs in the history of Real Madrid and world football, and we have had the privilege of enjoying him for a long time. He is one of our greatest legends, and Real Madrid is and will always be his home.”
After leaving Real Madrid in 2022, Marcelo had a short stint with Greek club Olympiacos, which ended after five months. He returned to Fluminense in 2023, playing 68 matches over two seasons before parting ways with the club in November following a public disagreement with manager Mano Menezes.
Marcelo leaves behind a legacy as one of football’s most decorated and beloved players.
