Brazilian star Marcelo has brought an end to his two-decade-long career filled with success.
Just three months after parting ways with his childhood club Fluminense, Marcelo has announced his retirement from football. The Brazilian icon decided to call it quits at the age of 36, making the announcement through a video message on social media this Thursday.
Marcelo began his career in the youth team at Fluminense before making his senior debut there in 2005. In 2007, he moved to Real Madrid, where he spent the best years of his career.
At Spain’s most successful club, Marcelo solidified his place as one of the top left-backs of his era during his 15-year tenure at Santiago Bernabéu. He won numerous trophies, including five Champions League titles and six La Liga titles, among others.
Marcelo shared a video showcasing memorable moments, such as celebrating titles with his teammates and other key career highlights, saying, “My story as a player ends here, but I still have a lot to offer in football.”
After 15 and a half years at Real Madrid, Marcelo became the most decorated player in the club’s 120-year history, with 25 trophies. He was later surpassed by Nacho Fernández, Luka Modrić, and Dani Carvajal.
Following a brief five-month stint at Greek club Olympiacos, Marcelo returned to Fluminense in February 2023. That year, he helped the team win the Copa Libertadores and the Rio de Janeiro State Championship.
However, his return to his beloved club didn’t end on a high note. After a dispute with coach Mano Menezes, Fluminense canceled his contract in November, and Marcelo did not join any other club afterward.
Marcelo was also a vital member of Brazil’s national team for many years but did not win any major international titles. He played 58 matches for Brazil and scored six goals. Marcelo was a key part of the team that won the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup on home soil. Additionally, he earned bronze at the 2008 Olympics and silver at the 2012 Olympics.
