Brazilian football legend Marcelo has officially announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 36. The left-back, who earned 58 caps for Brazil, is widely regarded as one of the most decorated players in history.
Marcelo began his career at Fluminense, before joining Real Madrid in 2007. Over 16 seasons at the club, he secured 25 major titles, including five Champions League trophies and six La Liga championships.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Marcelo shared in a video, “At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door and I arrived here. Now, I can proudly say that I am a true Madrileno.”
Marcelo, who was named Real Madrid captain in 2021, became the first non-Spaniard to hold that honor in the club’s 117-year history.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez praised him as one of the greatest left-backs of all time, stating, “Marcelo is one of our greatest legends and Real Madrid is and will always be his home.”
Following a brief stint with Olympiacos, Marcelo returned to Fluminense in 2023. After two seasons, he parted ways with the club last November due to a public dispute with manager Mano Menezes.
