Real Madrid honored Brazilian legend Marcelo following his announcement of retirement from professional football at the age of 36. The club expressed its "gratitude" for his career, which began at just 18 years old at the Bernabéu, where he became one of the most decorated players in history and a true "legend" of both the club and world football.

Real Madrid’s Message to Marcelo

"Following Marcelo’s announcement of his retirement from professional football, Real Madrid C.F. would like to express its gratitude and affection. Marcelo is a part of Real Madrid’s history and one of the great legends of our club and world football," the club stated in an official release.

Remembering His Arrival

Real Madrid recalled Marcelo’s arrival in 2006 as a promising 18-year-old, stepping into the shoes of legendary left-back Roberto Carlos.

"He has been a key player during one of the most successful eras in our 122-year history. Over 16 seasons wearing our jersey and crest, he won 25 titles in 546 matches."

A Giant on an Individual Level

The club also highlighted Marcelo’s individual achievements:

• Six-time FIFA FIFPRO World XI selection.
• Copa Confederations 2013 champion with Brazil.
• Olympic medalist: Silver at London 2012, Bronze at Beijing 2008.
• Copa Libertadores and Recopa Sudamericana winner with Fluminense.

A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten

Marcelo ranks as the third foreign player with the most appearances for Real Madrid. He was a goalscorer in the 2014 Champions League final ("La Décima") in Lisbon and later captained the team to their 14th Champions League title ("La Decimocuarta") in Paris.

"Marcelo gave everything for this jersey, embodying the values of Real Madrid. His spectacular football will forever remain in the hearts of Madridistas," the club emphasized.

Marcelo’s Emotional Video

Florentino Pérez’s Message

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez hailed Marcelo as "one of the greatest legends" in the club’s history, expressing gratitude for his contributions following the left-back's retirement announcement.

"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 his talent for a long time," Pérez told the club’s media after Marcelo, at 36, confirmed his retirement.

For the Real Madrid president, Marcelo—who won 25 titles over 16 seasons with the club—is a key figure in the club’s modern era. "He is one of our greatest legends, and Real Madrid is and will always be his home," Pérez added.