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 ice running through his
veins, Marcelo didn't take long to earn a spot in the starting eleven.
Marcelo’s consistent playing time also rubbed 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.
Personal
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.
Honours
·
Copa
del Rey: 2011
·
La
Liga: 2006/07, 2007/08, 2011/12
·
Spanish
Super Cup: 2008
·
Olympic
Bronza Medal: 2008
Career
·
Fluminense
(2005/06)
·
Real
Madrid (2006-present)
·
La
Liga debut: 7
January 2007
Match: Deportivo 2-0 Real Madrid
Match: Deportivo 2-0 Real Madrid
·
Real
Madrid debut: 7
January 2007
Match: Deportivo 2-0 Real Madrid
Match: Deportivo 2-0 Real Madrid
·
International
for Brazil
Source : http://www.realmadrid.com
