Place of Birth: 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Date of Birth: 

12/05/1988

Position: 

Defender

Weight: 

73 kg

Height: 

171.9 cm

Nationality: 

Brazilian

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior, or simply Marcelo, was one of the ‘Crown Jewels’ of always-prolific Brazilian football and one of Real Madrid’s swanky winter signings of 2006/07. He arrived in Europe at the age of 18 having already hit the big time with Fluminense and he quickly adapted to Madrid thanks to the other Brazilians on the squad, but especially Roberto Carlos, who took Marcelo under his wing and taught his successor the tricks of the trade.

A pacey and offensive player, the young left-back has worked arduously since landing in Madrid hoping to capitalize on the opportunities given to him by the manager. With nerves of steel and water running through his veins, Marcelo has earned Bernd Schuster’s confidence and a spot in the line-up. “I always knew I’d get my chance, and now I get to show my stuff on the pitch,” he explained.

Marcelo’s consistent playing time is also rubbing off on Brazilian national team coach Dunga, who gave the youngster his debut against Wales. No one could have written a better script as Marcelo hammered home an impressive crossed shot from outside the box in an all-out display of strength, speed, and ball-handling.

Place of Birth: 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Date of Birth: 

12/05/1988

Position: 

Defender

Weight: 

73 kg

Height: 

171.9 cm

Nationality: 

Brazilian

Marcelo began playing football when he was nine years old. He joined the Fluminense youth at 13 and started as a midfielder before the club’s manager positioned him as a left-back in order to make better use of his speed. He nearly dropped out of the football academy because his parents couldn’t afford his daily bus fare, but the club took care of the situation to not to lose the player. After firmly establishing himself on the first team, it was only a matter of time before he made his move to Europe and was called-up by Brazil.

The defender feels happy in the Spanish capital and spends his free time with his family and friends. He especially enjoys playing his PlayStation. He is a good friend of the other Brazilians on the squad as well as Gonzalo Higuaín, who happens to be his neighbour. Roberto Carlos is his friend, mentor and all-time favourite player. Marcelo is a nice, affable, and witty young man who sings and dances with Robinho during training.

Place of Birth: 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Date of Birth: 

12/05/1988

Position: 

Defender

Weight: 

73 kg

Height: 

171.9 cm

Nationality: 

Brazilian

• La Liga: 2006/07, 2007/08

Place of Birth: 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Date of Birth: 

12/05/1988

Position: 

Defender

Weight: 

73 kg

Height: 

171.9 cm

Nationality: 

Brazilian

• Fluminense (2005/06)
• Real Madrid (2006-present)
• La Liga debut: 7 January 2007
  Match: Deportivo 2-0 Real Madrid
• Real Madrid debut: 7 January 2007
  Match: Deportivo 2-0 Real Madrid
• International for Brazil