One of the greatest left backs in history, Marcelo, who played for Real Madrid and Brazil, announced his retirement on Thursday at the age of 36.

From 2007–22 with Real Madrid to 2023–24 at his childhood Brazilian club Fluminense, Marcelo, an aggressive left back, had one of the most trophy-filled careers in history.

A key member of the all-conquering Real Madrid team of the 2010s, his trophy cabinet is something that even some of the game’s greatest legends would be envious of.

The Brazilian played in 546 games for Los Blancos overall, contributing an outstanding 103 assists and 38 goals.

Marcelo leaves the game as one of the most decorated players ever, having won 28 senior-level club and national championships.

His flawless fits-touch control, which frequently results in his stopping the ball dead beneath his boot after a long-range pass, may be what some fans remember him for the most.

The Brazilian, who has earned 58 caps for his nation, announced he was putting up his boots for good on social media with a heartfelt video.

My grandfather is the reason I love football. He made every effort to ensure that I become a professional football player because he wanted me to.

I came here when Real Madrid knocked on my home when I was eighteen. I may now declare with pride that I am a bonafide Madrileno.

One of the captains, five Champions Leagues, twenty-six seasons, twenty-five titles, and countless unforgettable evenings at the Bernabeu. What a trip! Madrid is a special team.

“It has also been a great honor to play for my country since the youth categories.” I will always treasure a Confederations Cup and two Olympic gold.

“I had to give back to the club what they gave me when I returned to Fluminense.” assisting them in winning three championships, including the Copa Libertadores, and establishing Marcelo Viera Stadium as a legacy for future generations.

Even though my playing career is coming to an end, I still have a lot to offer football. I’m grateful for everything.

After winning the Spanish league six times and the Champions League five times, Marcelo, who joined Madrid as a youth, became an icon in 2022.

Florentino Perez, the club president, praised his former charge as one of the “greatest legends” of the club.

We have had the honor of enjoying Marcelo for a considerable amount of time, and he is among the best left-backs in Real Madrid and global football history.

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

Marcelo began his career at Fluminense, where he won the Copa Libertadores, following a brief stint with Olympiacos in Greece.

After a falling out with manager Mano Menezes, he agreed to a mutual termination with Fluminense and left the club in November.

In addition to winning Olympic medals in 2008 (bronze) and 2012 (silver), Marcelo represented Brazil at the World Cup in 2014 and 2018.