Marcelo, the iconic Real Madrid player known for his big hair and incredible success, announced his retirement on Thursday at 36.
“My journey as a player ends here, but I still have so much to give to football. Thank you for everything,” the Brazilian shared in a video on X.
Marcelo, a defender with a strong attacking style, had one of the most decorated careers in soccer history. He played for Madrid from 2007 to 2022 and later returned to his first club, Fluminense, in 2023-24. He also represented Brazil in the 2014 and 2018 World Cups and won Olympic medals: a bronze in 2008 and silver in 2012.
During his time at Madrid, he won five Champions League titles, six Spanish league titles, and 25 trophies in total.
“Marcelo is part of the history of Real Madrid and is one of the great legends of our club and of world football,” Madrid said.
Marcelo moved to Europe in 2006, joining a Madrid team that was struggling at the time. He played a key role in one of the club’s most successful periods, often supporting the attack alongside Cristiano Ronaldo on the left.
Ronaldo honored his old teammate, calling him a “brother.”
“My brother, what an incredible career!” Ronaldo posted 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.”
Marcelo played 546 matches over 16 seasons before leaving Madrid in 2022, after winning his fifth European Cup. At that point, he held the most titles in club history, though Luka Modric and Nacho Fernández have since matched him with 26 each.
After a short period with Olympiakos in Greece, Marcelo returned to Fluminense, where he started his career, and won the Copa Libertadores.
