“I have a lot to give”

The Brazilian legend of Real Madrid y Fluminense, MARCELO VIEIRA DA SILVAannounced his retirement from professional football through an emotional video on his social networks. At 36, he hangs his booties one of the few players in history who managed to conquer both the Champions League and the Copa Libertadores.

“My story as a player ends here. But I still have a lot to give football. Thank you so much,” he said Marcelo In his farewell, although he made it clear that he will remain linked to football but from another role. The talented lateral had terminated his contract with Fluminense in November 2024 for a confrontation with coach Mano Menezes.

In 2006, Marcelo, just 18 years old, He arrived at Real Madrid to replace his idol Roberto Carlos. Since his debut in 2007, the defender managed Five Champions League, six leagues and four club World Cups.

After his departure from Madrid, the Brazilian continued his career in Greece, where he played a few months with Olympiacos. In 2023, he returned to the club that saw him born, Fluminenseand left his mark forever. It was key in the conquest of the first Copa Libertadores of the history of the Brazilian team, achieved in the unforgettable final against Boca Juniors in the Maracaná.

However, its stage in the flow did not end in the best way. On November 2 Marcelo and the technical director, Mano Menezes, had an altercation that caused the left side exit. Although he was free and had the possibility of negotiating with any team, he decided to end his football career and say goodbye to football.

Despite not having achieved a World Cup or Copa América, Marcelo got three important achievements with his selection. The Brazilian side was crowned champion of the 2013 Confederations Cup and won medals at the Olympic Games: Bronze in Beijing 2008 and Plata in London 2012.

At 36, with an impressive balance of 721 played games, 58 goals and 117 assists, Marcelo said goodbye to football, but his legacy will last as one of the most talented players in history.

“My love for football comes for my grandfather. He wanted me to be a professional footballer and did everything possible to get it.

With 18 years Real Madrid knocked on my door and came here. I can already say that I am another Madrid. Here I have formed a family with my wife. 16 seasons, 25 titles, five Champions, one of the captains and so many and tanned magnet nights in the Bernabéu what madness.

Madrid is a different club. Real Madrid is an inexplicable feeling. Playing for my country’s shirt since lower categories has also been an honor. In my memory there are two Olympic medals and a glass of conferences.

Returning to Fluminense was to return to the club what he gave me. Help him get three titles, including the Copa Libertadores, and left a legacy for the poor at the Marcelo Vieira stadium.

My story as a player ends here, but I still have a lot to give football. Thanks for so much. “