Brazilian star Marcelo, the former left-back of Real Madrid and the Brazilian
national team, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 36,
following a career filled with achievements and trophies. Marcelo shared a
farewell video on his official Instagram account on February 6, 2025,
officially marking the end of his football journey.
A Stellar Career at Real Madrid
Marcelo joined Real Madrid at the age of 18, spending 15 years with the club
and winning 25 titles, including five UEFA Champions League trophies. He
played 721 matches, scoring 58 goals and providing 117 assists, cementing his
place as one of the most iconic players in the club’s history.
Reflecting on his move to Real Madrid, Marcelo said, "At that age, Real Madrid
knocked on my door, and I moved here. Now, I can proudly say I am a
Madridista." He added that his life changed completely in Madrid, where he
started his family and experienced countless magical nights at the Santiago
Bernabéu Stadium.
International Achievements and Olympic Medals
On the international stage, Marcelo earned 58 caps for the Brazilian national
team, winning the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, a silver medal at the 2012
Olympics, and a bronze medal at the 2008 Olympics. He expressed pride in
representing Brazil, describing it as a period full of challenges and
accomplishments.
Return to Fluminense and Retirement
After his illustrious career at Real Madrid, Marcelo returned to Fluminense in
2022, the club where he began his journey. Despite winning the Copa
Libertadores with the Brazilian club in 2023, he decided to retire in November
2024 due to disagreements with the club’s technical director.
In his farewell video, Marcelo said, "My journey as a player ends here, but I
still have a lot to give to football. Thank you for everything."
Marcelo’s Unforgettable Legacy
Marcelo is regarded as one of the greatest left-backs in football history,
leaving an indelible mark at Real Madrid and with the Brazilian national team.
With 25 titles at Real Madrid, including five Champions League trophies and
six La Liga titles, his name will forever shine brightly in football history.