Here is the translated article in English:
Brazilian football star Marcelo, former defender for Real Madrid and the Brazil national team, announced his retirement from football on Thursday at the age of 36, bringing an end to a remarkable career that included five UEFA Champions League titles.
Marcelo spent 15 years with Real Madrid, from joining the club in 2007 until his departure in 2022, amassing a total of 25 trophies. His achievements include five Champions League titles, six La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey titles, five Spanish Super Cups, four FIFA Club World Cups, and three UEFA Super Cups.
On the international stage, Marcelo earned 58 caps for Brazil, winning the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013. He also secured a silver medal at the 2012 Olympic Games and a bronze medal at the 2008 Olympics.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Marcelo said: “My journey as a player ends here, but I still have a lot to give to football. Thank you all for everything.”
Marcelo’s final club was Fluminense, the team where he began his youth career before rising to prominence. He won the Copa Libertadores with the Brazilian side in 2023 before mutually terminating his contract in November.
The legendary left-back left an indelible mark on the Champions League, scoring in the 2014 final to help Real Madrid secure their long-awaited 10th European title. That victory marked the beginning of a dominant era, as the club went on to claim five more Champions League titles.
Marcelo was also a key part of the historic Real Madrid squad that won three consecutive Champions League trophies between 2016 and 2018.
In an official statement, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez praised Marcelo’s legacy, saying: “He is one of the greatest left-backs in the history of Real Madrid and world football, and we had the honor of watching him play for many years.”
He added: “Marcelo is a true legend, and the doors of Real Madrid will always be open for him.”
