Brazilian football legend Marcelo has announced his retirement at age 36 through a heartfelt video shared on social media platforms. His former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo quickly responded with an emotional tribute.
“My brother, what an extraordinary journey you’ve had! We’ve shared countless memories, victories, and unforgettable moments together,” Ronaldo expressed in Portuguese via social media. “You’ve been more than just a teammate – you’ve been a true life companion. Thank you for everything, my friend. May this new chapter bring you all the happiness you deserve.”
The Brazilian star reciprocated with a simple yet meaningful “my brother” response, accompanied by a heart emoji. Their partnership at Real Madrid spanned nine remarkable years, during which they achieved unprecedented success.
Legacy at Real Madrid
Marcelo’s illustrious career began when he joined Real Madrid from Fluminense in 2007 as a promising 18-year-old talent. His 15-season tenure with Los Blancos yielded an impressive collection of 25 trophies, including:
- 5 UEFA Champions League titles
- 6 LaLiga championships
- Multiple domestic cups and international honors
Marcelo, one of the greatest left backs of all time, has officially announced his retirement from football. 🚨⚪️
🏆 25 titles with Real Madrid
🏆 Champions League x5
🏆 La Liga x6
🏆 Club World Cup x4
Brazilian legend. 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/VKXsyaQVw9
International Achievement and Final Chapter
On the international stage, Marcelo earned 58 caps for Brazil, scoring 6 goals. His national team achievements include the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup victory and Olympic medals – silver in 2012 and bronze in 2008. Before retiring, he added one final trophy to his collection by helping Fluminense secure the 2023 Copa Libertadores title.
Real Madrid’s president Florentino Perez paid tribute to the retiring star: “One of the greatest left-backs in Real Madrid and world football history, we were privileged to witness his magic for so many years. He is among our greatest legends, and Real Madrid will forever be his home.”
The football world continues to celebrate Marcelo’s remarkable career, with former teammates including Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, and Raphael Varane joining the chorus of tributes to one of football’s most decorated defenders.
