Marcelo announces retirement at 36

Marcelo, the Legendary Left-Back of Real Madrid, Announces Retirement

Marcelo, the left-back who made history at Real Madrid, where he played for over 15 years, has announced his retirement from football.

Marcelo’s last club was Fluminense, where he won the Copa Libertadores in 2023. However, he terminated his contract in 2024 due to disagreements with head coach Mano Menezes.

Join us as we take a look at the victorious career of one of the most remarkable and decorated full-backs of his generation.

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Early Career at Fluminense

Marcelo began his football journey at Fluminense, joining the club’s futsal team at just nine years old. Over time, he transitioned to 11-a-side football and was promoted to the first team in 2005 by head coach Abel Braga. That year, he won the Campeonato Carioca, his first professional trophy.

In 2006, Marcelo became one of the standout players of the season. After playing just 40 matches, scoring six goals, and providing three assists, he was signed by Real Madrid.

He was transferred in November 2006 for €7 million, joining the Real Madrid squad in early 2007.

Photo: Divulgation

Marcelo: A Real Madrid Icon

Marcelo cemented his legacy at Real Madrid, winning every possible trophy and staying at the club for over 15 years, making him the most decorated Brazilian player in the club’s history.

His debut came in a 2-0 defeat against Deportivo La Coruña in January 2007, coming on as a substitute. Later, under Manuel Pellegrini, he transitioned into a wing-back role. When asked by AS about his preferred position, Marcelo said: “I feel better playing as a winger, but if needed, I will return to my original role.”

His strong performances earned him a contract extension. Initially set to expire in 2013, his deal was renewed in 2010 until mid-2015.

Under José Mourinho, in the 2010/2011 season, Marcelo returned to his natural position as a left-back.

Marcelo won his first Champions League title in the 2013/2014 season. Real Madrid trailed 1-0 against Atlético Madrid until Sergio Ramos equalized in the 93rd minute. In extra time, Madrid dominated and won 4-1, with Marcelo scoring the third goal. After receiving a pass from Cristiano Ronaldo, he advanced freely and struck a low shot past Courtois.

From 2016 to 2018, Real Madrid made history by winning three consecutive Champions League titles.

• 2016: Defeated Atlético Madrid on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Marcelo converting his spot-kick.
• 2017: Thrashed Juventus 4-1, with Marcelo providing an assist for the fourth goal after a brilliant individual play.
• 2018: Beat Liverpool 3-1, with Marcelo assisting Gareth Bale twice, including the iconic bicycle kick goal

Foto: Divulgação/Ángel Martínez/Real Madrid

In April 2022, Marcelo won La Liga, becoming the most decorated player in Real Madrid history with 25 trophies. He later added his fifth Champions League title, although as a squad player.

In June 2022, he received an emotional farewell after 15 seasons, having won:

 5 Champions Leagues: 2013/14, 2015/16, 2016/17, 2017/18, 2021/22
 4 Club World Cups: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
 6 La Liga titles: 2006/07, 2007/08, 2011/12, 2016/17, 2019/20, 2021/22
 2 Copa del Rey titles: 2010/11, 2013/14
 5 Spanish Super Cups: 2008, 2012, 2017, 2020, 2022
 3 UEFA Super Cups: 2014, 2016, 2017

Numbers at Real Madrid:
 545 games
 481 as a starter
 371 wins
 86 draws
 88 defeats
 38 goals
 101 assists

At his farewell press conference, Marcelo was emotional: “Today is the happiest day since I arrived at Real Madrid. I leave knowing I built a legacy. My teammates don’t just see me as Marcelo the footballer, but as a great person. The hardest part is saying goodbye. Wearing this jersey is the most beautiful thing. The future doesn’t scare me because my history is already written.”

He left his mark on Real Madrid, not only as one of the greatest left-backs but also as a symbol of talent, charisma, and leadership. His close partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo down the left flank was one of Madrid’s deadliest weapons during their Champions League dominance (2014-2018).

Photo: Divulgação/Real Madrid

In September 2022, he joined Olympiacos, but his spell was short-lived. He played only 10 matches, scoring three goals, before leaving the club after six months.

The Return Home: Fluminense

At the start of 2023, Marcelo returned to Fluminense and made an immediate impact. He arrived during the Campeonato Carioca final, missing the first leg (a 2-0 defeat to Flamengo). He made his debut on April 5, in a 3-1 win over Sporting Cristal.

In the second leg of the final, Fluminense produced a stunning comeback, winning 4-1 against Flamengo, with Marcelo scoring a spectacular opening goal, securing the 2023 Campeonato Carioca title.

Later that year, Fluminense made history, winning their first-ever Copa Libertadores. After topping a group with Sporting Cristal, The Strongest, and River Plate, they eliminated Argentinos Juniors (Round of 16), Olimpia (Quarter-finals), and Internacional (Semi-finals).

In the final at Maracanã, Fluminense faced Boca Juniors. After a 1-1 draw, the match went to extra time, where John Kennedy scored the winner, sealing a 2-1 victory and the club’s first Libertadores title.

In 2024, Fluminense struggled in the Brasileirão, facing relegation threats until the final matchday. During a 2-2 draw against Grêmio, head coach Mano Menezes attempted to sub Marcelo in at the 44th minute of the second half. Marcelo was displeased with the late substitution and reacted negatively. Following a brief exchange, Mano opted to sub in John Kennedy instead.

Two days later, Fluminense confirmed Marcelo’s contract termination.

On February 6, 2025, Marcelo announced his retirement from football at 36 years old.

 

Written by Henry Miller.