Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to his former Real Madrid team-mate Marcelo, who has announced his retirement from football.
Ronaldo and Marcelo played together for almost a decade before they parted ways with Ronaldo who Wednesday turned 40 years joining Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabia, while Marcelo, 36, returned to his native Brazil to join Fluminense, he left the club last year after falling out with the management.
“My brother, what an incredible career! We’ve lived a lot together, years of achievements, victories and unforgettable moments. More than a teammate, a companion for life. Thank you for everything, my friend. I wish you all the best in this new stage of life,” Ronaldo posted on his Instagram.
Marcelo joined Real Madrid at age of 18. He won 25 pieces of major silverware in 15 years at the Bernabeu, including five Champions League titles and six La Liga titles.
“At 18, Real Madrid knocked on my door and I arrived here. Now, I can proudly say that I am a true Madrileno,” Marcelo said in a video on his social media.
“Sixteen seasons, 25 titles, five Champions Leagues, one of the captains and so many magical nights at the Bernabeu. What a journey!
“My journey as a player ends here, but I still have so much to give to football. Thank you for everything.”
Marcelo was named club captain in 2021, becoming the first non-Spaniard to be given the armband at the club in 117 years.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said: “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 him for a long time.
