February 7 – Brazil and Real Madrid legend Marcelo, one of the most decorated players in history, has announced his retirement from the game at the age of 36.
In a video on social media platform X, Marcelo said: “My journey as a player ends here, but I still have so much to give to football. Thank you for everything.”
The full-back enjoyed great success in the Spanish capital from 2007 to 2022. He won the Champions League five times, the Spanish league six times and 25 titles in total. He featured 546 times for Madrid in 16 seasons.
Following in the footsteps of Roberto Carlos and Cafu, Marcelo continued the tradition of great Brazilian full-backs at the Bernabeu. His trademark was his ability to exploit spaces left by Cristiano Ronaldo and together they built a great dynasty that cemented Madrid’s place as the undisputed kings of European football.
“My brother, what an incredible career!” Ronaldo wrote on X. “We went through a lot together. There were years of achievements, victories and unforgettable moments. More than a teammate, (you) a companion for my life. Thanks for everything, friend. I wish you all the best in this new stage of life.”
In 2023, he returned to his boyhood club Fluminense where he won the Copa Libertadores, the South American equivalent of the Champions League. Since December, Marcelo had been without a club after he fell out with Fluminense manager Mano Menezes.
At the international level, Marcelo played 58 times for Brazil, including at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups. He also claimed medals at the Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012.
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