Tributes And Reactions From Major Football Stars And Teammates Flood In Following Marcelo Retirement Announcement From The Sport.

Several former teammates and sports stars has paid tribute to Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior who announced his retirement from professional football on Thursday February 6, 2025.

The legacy of Marcelo in football continues to make an impact even after his retirement as the Brazilian, who shined with Real Madrid and Fluminense receives emotional farewell messages.

Marcelo  spent 15 illustrious seasons with Los Blancos from 2007 to 2022 before brief stints with Olympiacos and his boyhood club, Fluminense. His retirement marks the end of a storied career that also included 58 appearances for the Brazilian national team.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez praised Marcelo’s contributions, stating that he is one of the greatest left-backs in both the club’s and world football’s history. 

Perez emphasized that the Spanish club will always be Marcelo’s home, showcasing the deep respect and admiration the club has for the player.

"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.

"He is one of our greatest legends and Real Madrid is and will always be his home."

Marcelo left the Bernabeu as the most decorated player in the Spanish club’s 120-year history with 25 trophies, including six La Liga titles and five Champions League crowns, though that mark has since been surpassed by Nacho, Luka Modric and Dani Carvajal.

In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Marcelo expressed his pride in being a “true Madrileno” and reminisced about the “magical nights” he experienced throughout his career.

He also received an emotional tribute from fellow compatriot Neymar, who expressed his respect and affection for his former national teammate, describing him as "one of the greatest left-backs in history."

Neymar recently left Saudi club side Al-Hilal to return to the club where he started his career, now playing for Santos, the No. 10 of the Selection wrote on social media; "Congratulations on your career, my friend! It has been an honor to be part of the history of one of the greatest left-backs of all time. Good thing he's Brazilian…"

Marcelo had played alongside Neymar in the Brazilian national team competing in the 2014 and 2018 World Cups.

The president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Ednaldo Rodrigues, also dedicated farewell words to him. "Marcelo is one of the greatest players to have ever worn the Brazilian national team jersey. Intelligent, skillful, with remarkable dribbling and a privileged vision of the game, he has thrilled the fans of Fluminense, Real Madrid, and all those who love football."

Former and current Real Madrid teammates such as Sergio Ramos, Cristiano Ronaldo, and David Alaba took to social media to share heartfelt messages and fond memories of the beloved left-back.

Five-time Ballon d'Or winner and Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo referred to Marcelo as his brother.

Ronaldo who just turned age 40, took to social media to praise Marcelo in a statement.

"My brother, what an incredible career! We lived so much together, it was years of achievements, victories, and unforgettable moments"... He said.

"More than a teammate, a companion for my life.

"Thank you for everything, friend. I wish you all the best in this new stage of life."

Former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos shared a heartfelt message along with several photos with Marcelo:

"A legend retires, a brother, my partner through so many battles. So many victories, so many titles, and so many laughs. It has been an honor to share so many years on the field with you. Today you hang up your boots, but your legacy is eternal. You are history in football. Thank you for your magic and for being the best ally on and off the field. Enjoy this new chapter, Marcelo! Love you, brother."

Raphaël Varane, former Madrid defensive partner, celebrated his successful career: "My brother, what a career! You’ve achieved everything."

Beyond his former teammates, fans worldwide are also paying tribute, sending well wishes as Marcelo embarks on a new chapter in his life.

Achraf Hakimi, fullback for PSG, expressed his admiration: "A sad day for football. Thank you for everything, idol."

Isco Alarcón, currently with Real Betis, remembered his talent and human qualities: "Thank you for everything you’ve given to football, for being a great teammate and rival. Technically unbeatable. I wish you all the best in everything that comes, my Marcelinho."

Vinícius Jr. highlighted the legacy of Marcelo, the Real Madrid forward praised his compatriot’s attacking quality, remembering him as a unique player:

"I miss your dribbles, goals, assists… A forward who played as a fullback. Thank you for everything. You’re a warrior!" These words, shared by Vini Jr. on Instagram.