Real Madrid and Brazilian football legend Marcelo has officially called time on his playing career at the age of 36.
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Marcelo won five UCL trophies with Real MadridBecame the first non-Spanish captain to lead Real since 1904Ended his career after a brief stint with FluminenseFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Marcelo’s career has been nothing short of exceptional, with the Brazilian winning five Champions League titles and securing six La Liga championships during his illustrious tenure with Real Madrid. After leaving Madrid following their Champions League victory in 2022, he had a brief stint with Greek giants Olympiacos before returning to Fluminense, the club where his professional journey began.
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Marcelo's homecoming proved historic, as he played a crucial role in Fluminense’s Copa Libertadores triumph in 2023, adding another major honour to his already impressive collection. However, his second spell at the club ended on a sour note when he departed in November 2024, following a dispute with head coach Mano Menezes during a heated match against Gremio.
WHAT MARCELO SAID
In an emotional video announcing his retirement, Marcelo expressed gratitude for his time in the game but also hinted that he would continue to be involved in football in a different capacity.
"At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door and I arrived here," Marcelo said in a video on social media. "Now, I can proudly say that I am a true Madrileno. Here, alongside my wife, I have built a family. 16 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."
DID YOU KNOW?
In 2021-22, he was handed the captain’s armband, making history as the first non-Spaniard to lead the club since 1904. That season, he guided Los Blancos to another Champions League triumph, marking a fitting end to his time at the club.
