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Marcelo 'considering La Liga stay after Real Madrid departure'

Marcelo 'considering La Liga stay after Real Madrid departure'
© Reuters
Experienced defender Marcelo could remain in La Liga next season despite his exit from Real Madrid, according to a report.

Experienced defender Marcelo is reportedly considering remaining in La Liga next season.

The 34-year-old's departure from Los Blancos has been officially confirmed, with the left-back leaving the reigning La Liga and European champions after 15 years at the club.

Speaking during his farewell speech, Marcelo revealed that he was not considering retirement and would continue his playing career for the 2022-23 campaign.

According to Marca, the Brazilian has interest from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey, with his agents already receiving a number of calls from proposed new clubs.

Marcelo is believed to be open to the idea of making the move to Turkey, which could potentially see him play European football once again during the 2022-23 campaign.

Real Madrid defender Marcelo pictured in November 2021© Reuters

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the idea of remaining in La Liga also appeals to the defender, as his family are settled in Spain.

The report claims that newly-promoted Real Valladolid, Getafe and Rayo Vallecano are all keen to sign the defender, although he would have to accept a significantly lower salary at those three clubs.

"I will not retire, not now," Marcelo said at his farewell. "I feel I can still play. Facing Real Madrid? It will not be a problem. I am a big Madridista but I am also a big professional.

"Today is the happiest day since I've been in Madrid because as I leave I realise I've left a legacy. I did not want to stay for another year or two out of pity. I'm always going to support Real Madrid and together we've decided to leave it well, and through the front door.

"I don't feel like a legend. Life doesn't end here. I'm going to continue playing. I believe I can continue but I'm not thinking much about the future. The most difficult thing is to say goodbye. To put on this shirt has been the most beautiful."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez pictured in September 2019© Reuters

Meanwhile, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said: "We wanted to pay a passionate tribute to our great captain. We speak of a legend, the player with the most titles in the history of Real Madrid.

"Dear Marcelo, you have accomplished all the dreams. You have won absolutely everything. You are without doubt one of the best full-backs in the history of world football, a unique player."

Marcelo made 544 appearances for Real Madrid after joining from Fluminense in 2007, contributing 37 goals and 103 assists in the process.

The Brazilian leaves Los Blancos having won seven La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey crowns and five Champions League trophies, in addition to lifting silverware in the Spanish Super Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.

However, he struggled for regular action during the 2021-22 campaign, featuring on just 17 occasions in all competitions, with Ferland Mendy becoming the club's first-choice left-back.

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Written by
Matt Law

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Real Madrid president Florentino Perez pictured in September 2019
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TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
1Barcelona18122450203038
2Atletico MadridAtletico17115131112038
3Real Madrid17114237162137
4Athletic Bilbao1896327161133
5Mallorca188371821-327
6Villarreal167542827126
7Real Sociedad177461611525
8Osasuna176742225-325
9Real BetisBetis176652021-124
10GironaGirona176472325-222
11Sevilla176471823-522
12Celta Vigo176382528-321
13Rayo Vallecano165561819-120
14Las PalmasLas Palmas175482227-519
15Leganes174671523-818
16Getafe173771114-316
17AlavesAlaves174491928-916
18Espanyol1642101528-1314
19Real ValladolidValladolid1733111234-2212
20Valencia152491323-1010


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