By Mustapha Habeeb
November 4th, 2024
Real Madrid legend Marcelo’s departure from Fluminense has been marred by controversy, with reports emerging of his “astonishing” behavior during his ill-fated spell at the club.
Marcelo’s contract was terminated by mutual agreement on Saturday, following a heated touchline argument with head coach Mano Menezes during the club’s 2-2 draw with Gremio.
The 36-year-old defender had been named as a substitute but was seen shaking his head at the coach’s instructions before the dispute escalated, with Menezes forcibly pushing Marcelo back to the bench.
According to ESPN Brazil, Marcelo’s behavior since joining Fluminense had been problematic, with difficult relationships with teammates, coaching staff, and club employees.
Journalist Rafael Marques alleged that Marcelo had issues with “basically everyone” at the club, including telling young players they didn’t need to focus on physical training if they had natural talent.
“Marcelo’s main problem was his inappropriate behaviour with the club’s management, as he always competed in a veiled way”, Marques added.
Marcelo’s conduct and commitment were reportedly questioned, with the player failing to travel with the team to ties outside Rio on several occasions throughout 2024.
In response to the allegations, Marcelo took to social media to express gratitude to the club, teammates, and fans, while also hinting that the truth would eventually come to light.
“I was part of unforgettable moments, such as winning the first Copa Libertadores in the history of the club. My name will be immortalized in the renovated Marcelo Vieira Stadium, the place where our Xerem boys train every day”
“I want to thank my wife @claricealves, my children @liamalvesv and @enzoalvesv, for always being by my side and for all the sacrifices they made for me. I am proud of what I have achieved and I thank everyone who made this unique moment, especially the president, the employees and my teammates. I also thank the tricolors for their support”
In a somewhat pointed note, however, the ex-Los Blancos star added: “I will always carry Fluminense in my heart. The truth, like the Sun, will always rise”.
Marcelo’s departure from Fluminense marks a sour end to his two-year stint at the club, where he won the Copa Libertadores in 2022.