Real Madrid legend, Marcelo retires from football

Former Real Madrid left-back Marcelo has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a remarkable, trophy-laden career.

The 36-year-old spent 16 seasons with the Spanish giants, securing six La Liga titles and five Champions League trophies along the way.

“In 2007, Real Madrid knocked on my door, and I arrived as an 18-year-old,” Marcelo reflected in a heartfelt social media video. “Today, I can proudly say that I am a true ‘Madrileño’.”

“What a journey. Real Madrid is a unique club.”

He also won the Copa del Rey twice and the Club World Cup four times during his time with Los Blancos, for whom he made 546 appearances, scoring 38 goals.

“One of the greatest left-backs in Real Madrid and world football history, and we had the privilege of watching him for a long time,” said Real Madrid president Florentino Perez in a statement.

“He is one of our greatest legends and Real Madrid is and always will be his home.”

Marcelo made 58 appearances for the Brazil national team, playing at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups and winning the 2013 Confederations Cup.

He was part of the teams that won a silver medal at the 2012 Olympics and bronze in Beijing in 2008.

“Playing for my country since the youth categories has also been a great honour,” he added.

“In my memory I will always cherish two Olympic medals and a Confederations Cup.”

Marcelo began his football career at Brazilian club Fluminense before making the move to Real Madrid.

After leaving the Santiago Bernabeu, he joined Greek side Olympiakos but terminated his contract after just five months, returning to Fluminense.

With his hometown club, Marcelo played a key role in securing Fluminense’s first Copa Libertadores title in 2023 with a victory over Boca Juniors in the final.

He mutually parted ways with the club in November last year and has not played since.