Marcelo is to leave Real Madrid with a farewell ceremony on Monday afternoon. The Brazilian full-back leaves Real Madrid as the most decorated player in their history.
How many players stay up to ten years at one club these days? Not many. The game has changed, with players moving at the slightest whim. Many factors contribute to the current situation. Money, playing time and a new challenge are just some of the few that affect their longevity at a club.
A few names come to mind. Raul Gonzalez, Paulo Maldini, Ryan Giggs, Steven Gerrard, Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema. These players not only stayed at their clubs for more than ten years but also contributed immensely in terms of titles won.
Marcelo is also on the list for a long and fruitful career at Real Madrid, and like others before him, all beautiful things eventually end – one way or another. The 34-year-old will call time on his Real Madrid career on Monday, despite his wish for one last dance in the rain.
Real Madrid confirms the departure of a loyal soldier
Marcelo arrived at Real Madrid as an 18-year-old expected to fill in the giant boots of club legend Roberto Carlos. Fifteen years later, Marcelo might not have filled in for Roberto Carlos as many expected. He created his legacy and even surpassed the achievements of the former Brazilian left-back.
Real Madrid have confirmed that Marcelo will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the month. A tribute ceremony comes up Monday afternoon in honour of the 34-year-old Brazilian.
Marcelo spent 15 years with Los Merengues. The Brazilian full-back won 25 major trophies, including five Champions League and six La Liga titles.
Real Madrid announced via their website that there would be an institutional farewell and tribute ceremony for Marcelo at Real Madrid City. The ceremony would be presided over by club president Florentino Perez.
Marcelo: A Real Madrid legend
Marcelo created plenty of memories for Madridistas. He scored many goals for the club, and despite not having the pace of Roberto Carlos, he was perhaps the most skilful full-back to have played the game.
The 34-year-old captain of Real Madrid would receive the same treatment as Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos. The club would celebrate all the trophies he won over his Real Madrid career.
Marcelo leaves Real Madrid on a high note after winning his sixth La Liga and fifth Champions League crown. The Brazilian has been at the club since 2007. He cannot have asked for a better ending to a career laden with triumphs. He joins the class of players with the most Champions League titles.
The Brazilian made 545 appearances for Los Blancos in all competitions and scored 38 goals, alongside 103 assists.
It would be a tale of two players as Marcelo receives a warm goodbye while Bale gets nothing more than a wave and an escort to the door.
Reports suggest Fenerbahce and Marseille are interested in Marcelo.
