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Marcelo

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior, known as Marcelo, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played mainly as a left-back.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior, known as Marcelo, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played mainly as a left-back. He is best known for his long spell at Real Madrid, where he won 25 trophies and became the club’s most decorated player. He also represented Brazil internationally and announced his retirement in February 2025.

Early life and club career

Marcelo was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 12 May 1988. He developed at Fluminense, where he started his professional career in 2005. He moved to Real Madrid in January 2007 and later had spells outside Spain before returning to Fluminense.

Real Madrid career

At Real Madrid, Marcelo became a long-serving first-team regular and one of the club’s most decorated players. He made 546 appearances for the club and won five UEFA Champions League titles and six La Liga titles. Real Madrid describes him as its most decorated player, with 25 trophies. He captained Real Madrid in the 2022 UEFA Champions League final victory.

International career

Marcelo played for Brazil at senior level after making his debut in 2006. His international honours included an Olympic bronze medal and a Confederations Cup title.

Retirement

Marcelo left Fluminense in late 2024 and announced his retirement from professional football on 6 February 2025.

Key facts

  • Marcelo began his professional career with Fluminense in 2005.
  • He joined Real Madrid in January 2007 and made 546 appearances for the club.
  • He won five UEFA Champions League titles and six La Liga titles with Real Madrid.
  • Real Madrid describes him as its most decorated player, with 25 trophies.
  • He represented Brazil and won international honours including an Olympic bronze medal and a Confederations Cup title.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Marcelo in soccer?
Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior is a Brazilian former professional footballer best known as a left-back for Real Madrid and Brazil.
What is Marcelo’s full name?
His full name is Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior.
Which club is Marcelo most associated with?
He is most associated with Real Madrid, where he spent 16 seasons and won 25 trophies.
How many UEFA Champions League titles did Marcelo win?
He won five UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid.
When did Marcelo retire?
He announced his retirement on 6 February 2025.

References

  1. Real Madrid — https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/the-club/history/football-legends/marcelo-vieira
    Supports: Full name, date/place of birth, position, appearances, goals, trophies, and retirement-related club history.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcelo_(footballer,_born_1988)
    Supports: Career timeline including Fluminense, Real Madrid, Olympiacos, return to Fluminense, and retirement announcement.
  3. MLSsoccer.com — https://www.mlssoccer.com/players/marcelo/
    Supports: Biography, position, birth details, and Brazil national team involvement.