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End of an era! Real Madrid legend retires from football

2025-02-06 14:27:00, Sport CNA

Marcelo, one of the greatest defenders in football history, has decided to end his glorious career at the age of 36. An iconic player, a leader on the pitch and a symbol of beautiful football, has decided to hang up his boots after more than two decades of career at the highest levels of football.

Marcelo himself confirmed the news of his retirement from football through an emotional video posted on social media. In his message, he recalled his humble beginnings and the dream that came true thanks to the support of his grandfather.

"My love for football comes from my grandfather. He wanted me to become a professional footballer and I did everything to make it possible. When I was 18, Real Madrid asked me and I moved to Spain. I can say that I am a true Madrid player," he said.

Marcelo began his career in the academy of Fluminense, one of the most popular Brazilian clubs, immediately standing out as an exceptional talent on the left wing of defense. The player showed early on the speed, technique and tactical intelligence that would make him one of the best of his generation. In 2007, when he was only 18 years old, Marcelo joined Real Madrid, in a move that would prove decisive for him and for the Spanish club. In Madrid, he was not just a player, but he became a legend.

Marcelo stayed at Madrid for 15 years, becoming one of the most successful and beloved defenders by the fans. He was the successor to the great Roberto Carlos and managed to surpass him in some aspects, becoming a symbol of the golden generation of Los Blancos. During his time at Real Madrid, Marcelo won everything there is to win in European football: 6 La Liga titles, 5 Champions Leagues, 5 Club World Cups, 3 European Super Cups, 2 King's Cups (Copa del Rey) and 5 Spanish Super Cups.

In total, he played 546 games for Real Madrid, scoring 38 goals and providing over 100 assists. His style of play, his attacking forays, his quick dribbling and his precise passing, made him one of the best defenders in the world. In addition to his success at club level, Marcelo was also a key member of the Brazilian national team. He wore the Seleção jersey 58 times, representing Brazil in several major tournaments, including the 2014 and 2018 World Cups.

After leaving Real Madrid in the summer of 2022, Marcelo had a brief spell at Olympiacos in Greece, but after just 5 months he left the club. He decided to return home, joining Fluminense in 2023, where it all began.

With his boyhood club, Marcelo played 68 games over two seasons, making his final contribution as a professional. However, clashes with coach Mano Menezes at the end of last year led to his departure from the club, signaling the end of his active footballing career.