RONALDO HAILS MARCELO

Marcelo, one of football's all-time greats, has announced his retirement at the age of 36, bringing an end to a glittering career that spanned 16 seasons at Real Madrid. The Brazilian left-back called time on his playing days after a final stint with Fluminense, having not featured since October.

His career was defined by extraordinary achievements, including 25 trophies at Real Madrid, where he became the club's most decorated player and arguably the best left-back the game has seen.

Marcelo's time at Real Madrid saw him grace the pitch alongside many of football’s finest players. His former teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, paid a particularly heartfelt tribute to the Brazilian. Posting a series of photos on Instagram for his 648 million followers, Ronaldo shared his admiration for Marcelo's career, saying, “My brother, what an incredible career! We’ve lived a lot together, it’s been years of achievements, victories, and unforgettable moments. More than a teammate, a companion for life. Thanks for everything my friend. I wish you all the best in this new phase of life.”

Marcelo responded with a simple message, “My brother,” accompanied by a purple heart—a tribute to the iconic 2017 Champions League final victory against Juventus, where they secured their 12th European Cup. Over their time together at Madrid, Ronaldo and Marcelo formed an inseparable bond, playing a combined 332 matches together, with only a handful of players having more appearances alongside either of them.

Another close companion of Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, also shared his feelings on social media. The recently signed Monterrey center-back described Marcelo as “a brother, an old comrade of many battles,” reflecting on their years of triumphs and camaraderie. “So many victories, so many titles, and so many laughs,” Ramos continued. “It was an honor to share so many years on the pitch. Today you hang up your boots, but your legacy is eternal. You’re a part of football history. Thank you for your magic and for being the best ally on and off the pitch.”

Sami Khedira, who won the Champions League with Marcelo in 2014, also spoke highly of his former teammate. The German midfielder praised Marcelo’s technical brilliance and his infectious energy, saying, “On one hand, we’re talking about the football player, and technically, he was 100 percent one of the best. On the other hand, he was and still is a great human being. He’s always positive with his energy in the team but also super serious and competitive. Marcelo is one of the best teammates I’ve ever had, not just on the pitch but off it. He was one of the leaders.”

Marcelo's journey at Real Madrid began in 2007 when he joined from Fluminense. Despite a rocky start, with many questioning his defensive abilities, he overcame those early challenges to become an integral part of one of the most successful eras in football history. His career will be remembered not only for the trophies and accolades but for his unmatched skill, leadership, and the warmth he brought to every dressing room. As Marcelo hangs up his boots, his legacy as one of the finest left-backs the game has ever seen is firmly cemented.