Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has described the departing veteran defender Marcelo as a “pearl that half of Europe wanted” when Real lured him to join them at the age of 19.
The 34-year-old footballer joined the Spanish giants from Fluminense back in January 2007.
After their 1-0 win over Liverpool in the Uefa Champions League final on Saturday night, Marcelo divulged that Real is not going to renew his contract, with the side appearing like they are ready to move in a new approach – and younger direction.
When Madrid signed Marcelo, the aim was to replace his fellow countryman Roberto Carlos, who won many major trophies, particularly three European Cup titles. In 2007 he left Madrid after contributing to another La Liga title.
On a fascinating note, the Brazilian international considered Carlos as his idol.
“To me, he was God. To come into the same team as him and the same position, I couldn’t believe it,” said Marcelo.
During his stay at Real, he managed to make more than 500 appearances for the club where he went on to win four Champions League, Six La Liga titles, four Club World Cups, five Spanish Supercopas, three Uefa Super Cups and two Copa del Rey titles.
Meanwhile, former Madrid defender Fernando Hierro also heaped praise on Marcelo and noted that he was an important member of the Real squad for the past 15 years he spent at the club.
“It is true Marcelo is a player that was going to replace Roberto Carlos, no less, which wasn’t easy. And of course, today he is the most celebrated player of Real Madrid,” added Hierro.
“Marcelo is always a very special player. He brings a lot of joy and creativity to the game and is a very nice player to watch – and he is a nice guy as well, very friendly and a lovely person. I am really glad he is the most decorated player in the club’s history.”
Marcelo revealed that this was not goodbye as it might not be the last time he is seen at the Bernabeu.
“I have to do something with this club. I will come back. I have some football left, but then I will come back – I will come back to Real Madrid one day.”
Source: BBC Sport
