Former Brazil and Real Madrid left-back Marcelo has announced his retirement from football at the age of 36.
Marcelo ends his career as one of the most decorated in the sport, winning 25 pieces of major silverware in 15 years at the Bernabeu, including five Champions League titles and six La Liga titles.
After beginning his career at Fluiminese, the talented defender joined Real aged 18 in 2005, departing for Olympiakos in 2023, before a final two seasons back at Fluminese.
He played 548 times for Los Blancos and also won 58 caps for Brazil.
“At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door and I arrived here. Now, I can proudly say that I am a true Madrileno,” Marcelo said in a video on his social media.
“Sixteen 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.”
Forever grateful 💜#M12 pic.twitter.com/k8GP19sybd
— Marcelotwelve (@MarceloM12) February 6, 2025
Marcelo was named Real Madrid captain in 2021, becoming the first non-Spaniard to wear the armband at the club in 117 years.
Real president Floreinto Perez added: “Marcelo is one of the greatest left-backs in the history of Real Madrid and world football, and we have had the privilege of enjoying him for a long time.
“He is one of our greatest legends and Real Madrid is and will always be his home.”
The full-back left Fluiminese by mutual consent last November, following a public falling out with manager Mano Menezes.
