Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo dedicated heartfelt words to his former teammate and close friend Marcelo Vieira, who announced his retirement from professional football this Thursday at the age of 36. Through his social media, the Portuguese legend highlighted the bond they built during their time at Real Madrid and the unforgettable moments they shared.

"My brother, what an incredible career! We've lived through so much together—years of achievements, victories, and unforgettable moments. More than a teammate, a lifelong companion. Thank you for everything, my friend. I wish you all the best in this new stage of your life," Cristiano Ronaldo wrote in his farewell message.

Both players spent nine seasons together at Real Madrid, forming part of one of the club’s most successful eras. They won four Champions League titles (2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018) under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane, along with several domestic and international trophies.

For his part, Marcelo also shared an emotional message reflecting on his football journey and expressing gratitude to his family, teammates, and fans. "My story as a player ends here, but I still have a lot to give to football," he said in a video recounting his career and achievements.

A Real Madrid legend

The Brazilian left-back spent 16 seasons at Real Madrid, leaving an indelible mark with 25 trophies in 546 matches. He also became the third foreign player with the most appearances for the club. His legacy extended to the Brazilian national team, where he participated in two Olympic Games and won the Confederations Cup.

After a brief stint at Olympiacos and his return to Fluminense, Marcelo closes his career with a special milestone: he became the 14th player in history to win both the Champions League and the Copa Libertadores, cementing his place as a legend in both continents.