Brazillian full-back Marcelo couldn’t control his tears during the farewell ceremony as he said goodbye to Real Madrid after 16 years of a trophy-filled career. Marcelo won 25 trophies with Los Blancos, including five Champions League and six La Liga titles. 

This news, however, came with retirement rumours, which Marcelo quashed saying that he still wants to play in Europe, and possibly for the club that has already qualified for the Champions League. 

“I don’t think much about the future, I like to live in the moment. But it’s really hard to leave the club that you played your entire life,” he said. “I’m not scared about the future. I’ve done what I wanted here and I’m looking forward to what’s next. Not with fear of uncertainty, but with excitement.”

Marcelo had the big task of filling the void left by his compatriot Roberto Carlos when he joined the club as an 18-year-old boy in 2006. He spent one season with Carlos, learned all the tricks of the trade, and then ensured that the transition goes on without any hassle. 

During the glory years of Real Madrid, where they won four Champions League in five years, Marcelo was an instrumental member of the side, as his presence on the left flank allowed Cristiano Ronaldo to neglect his defensive duties and focus solely on the attack. 

Ronaldo wrote an emotional note to Marcelo: “More than a teammate, a brother that football gave me. On and off the pitch, one of the greatest stars with whom I had the pleasure of sharing a dressing room. Go for it all in this new adventure, Marcelo!”

Iker Casillas, the former goalkeeper, wrote: “You arrived as a child. How many times I shouted, “Marcelooooo, come back!” Thank you for being such a legend. A big hug my friend and all the best for the future.”

Marcelo was presented with gold and diamond insignia in the farewell ceremony, attended by the club president Florentino Perez, and his colleagues Dani Carvajal and Marco Asensio among others.

Featured Image: Real Madrid