Maracanã welcomes Real Madrid legend Marcelo

Over 30,000 Fluminense fans went to the famous Maracanã to welcome Marcelo home. The Real Madrid and Brazil legend returns to the club where he made his professional debut. “I’m speechless, I’m very happy,” he said when he stepped onto the pitch.

“There will be no lack of commitment, no lack of passion or dedication. Everything for you,” he told fans, who were celebrating the return of a historic figure. “It’s one of the happiest moments of my life to be back home,” he added.

The Brazilian wore the number 12 shirt for the first time in the colours of Fluminense in an emotional shirt handover. The sons of Germán Cano and PH Ganso handed it over to the two sons of the former Real Madrid player, who then put it on to continue the chanting with fans.

Marcelo leaves Madrid

Following his departure from Real Madrid, Marcelo had a brief spell in Greece at the end of last year after signing for Olympiacos, for who he made just 10 appearances. On 18 February, the Greek club and Marcelo reached a contract termination agreement, and just three days later, Fluminense announced the Brazilian’s return after 17 years.

Since the announcement of the signing, Marcelo and Fluminense have been notably active on social media, but it was not until last Thursday that the left-back set foot on Brazilian soil once again. He arrived at Rio de Janeiro airport, accompanied by his family and with a ‘Flu’ flag tied around his waist.

Marcelo’s arrival in Rio de Janeiro sparked a frenzy among fans. Social media was filled with messages of welcome for the 34-year-old, including from his new club: “Finally home again,” read one of Fluminense’s tweets.

Amidst chants and applause, the Rio-born player met with the club’s supporters and made his appearance wearing his new shirt and the usual smile that characterises both his personality and the way he plays football.

Marcelo began his career as a promising winger, with attacking ability and he was able to adapt his strengths to the left-back position, where he eventually became one of the best in history in the position.

After lifting Real Madrid’s fourteenth Champions League title, he became the player with the most titles in the history of the club, putting an end to his successful spell at the Madrid club. Now, he returns to Fluminense, fulfilling one of the wishes of his great mentor, his grandfather Pedro.