Marcelo announces his retirement at age 36

Brazilian decorated player Marcelo has announced his retirement from football at the age of 36.

The left-back, one of the most decorated players in the history of football, had 58 caps for Brazil.

After coming through the ranks of Brazilian club Fluminense, Marcelo signed for Real Madrid in 2007 at the age of 18.

He won 25 pieces of major silverware in 15 years at Santiago Bernabeu, including five UEFA Champions League titles and six La Liga titles.

“At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door, and I arrived here. Now, I can proudly say that I am a true Madrileño,” Marcelo said in a video on his social media.

“Sixteen seasons, 25 titles, five Champions Leagues, one of the captains, and so many magical nights at the Bernabeu. What a journey!

“My journey as a player ends here, but I still have so much to give to football. Thank you for everything.”

Marcelo was named club captain in 2021, making him the first non-Spaniard to be given the armband at the club in 117 years.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said, “Marcelo is one of the greatest left-backs in the history of Real Madrid and world football, and we have had the privilege of enjoying him for a long time.

“He is one of our greatest legends, and Real Madrid is and will always be his home.”

He left Madrid at the end of the 2021-22 season to sign for Greek side Olympiacos but cancelled his contract just five months after signing for the club.

Marcelo rejoined boyhood club Fluminense in 2023 and spent two seasons back at the club, making 68 appearances.

The full-back left by mutual agreement last November, following a public falling out with the club’s manager, Mano Menezes.