Through an emotional video on social media, Marcelo has announced his retirement from professional football. The Brazilian left-back departed Fluminense at the end of 2024 after his contract expired.
Marcelo’s Emotional Announcement
“My love for football comes from my grandfather. He wanted me to become a professional, and I did everything to make it happen. At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door, and I went. I can say that I feel like another Madrileño. With my wife, I built my family there. Sixteen seasons, 25 trophies, five Champions Leagues, the captain’s armband, and so many magical nights at the Bernabéu. Real Madrid is a unique club, and Madridismo is an indescribable feeling.
Wearing my national team’s jersey, from the youth levels to the senior squad, was a great honor. I will always cherish two Olympic medals and a Confederations Cup. Returning to Fluminense was my way of giving back to the club that gave me so much. I helped win three titles, including the Libertadores, and left a legacy for young players with the Marcelo Vieira Stadium. My playing career ends here, but I still have a lot to give to football,” Marcelo declared.
A Legendary Career: From Fluminense to Real Madrid
Marcelo developed in Fluminense’s youth academy, making 40 appearances between 2005 and 2006, catching the attention of Real Madrid. Moving to Spain at just 18, he became a global reference as a left-back.
Wearing the Blancos’ shirt, Marcelo played 546 matches, scoring 38 goals and providing 83 assists. His trophy cabinet with Real Madrid includes:
- 🏆 5 Champions League titles
- 🏆 6 LaLiga titles
- 🏆 4 FIFA Club World Cups
- 🏆 5 Spanish Super Cups
- 🏆 3 UEFA Super Cups
- 🏆 2 Copa del Rey titles
Named six times in the Team of the Year, Marcelo left the Santiago Bernabéu in 2023 after 16 seasons, moving first to Olympiacos (where he played only 10 matches) before returning to Fluminense. With the Brazilian club, he made 68 appearances, playing a key role in their historic Libertadores victory.
International Career: Two World Cups and a Confederations Cup Triumph
Marcelo represented Brazil 58 times, competing in two FIFA World Cups (2014 and 2018), two Olympic Games (2008 and 2012), and winning the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup with the Seleção.
His retirement marks the end of an era in world football, but Marcelo has already promised that his connection to the game will continue in new ways.