Real Madrid legend Marcelo is now without a club following the termination of his contract with Fluminense.

The former Brazil left-back had only rejoined his boyhood club in February last year after a brief spell with Greek giants Olympiacos. However, the 36-year-old is now in search of a new club following a sudden announcement.

A statement from Fluminense on Saturday read: “Fluminense FC and Marcelo Vieira announce the termination of their contract by mutual agreement between the parties. A graduate of the youth teams, Marcelo returned to Fluminense in 2023, having contributed to the success of the 2023 Campeonato Carioca, the unprecedented 2023 Copa Libertadores, and the 2024 Recopa titles.

“The institutional and emotional ties between Fluminense and Marcelo remain intact. The player’s name was recently immortalised at the Xerém training centre stadium. Fluminense extends its gratitude to Marcelo and, as always, will continue to support his success in all his endeavours.”

Marcelo’s departure follows what appeared to be a public altercation with his then-manager Mano Menezes. The Brazilian was poised to come on as a substitute against Grêmio, but after an exchange of words with Menezes, he returned to the bench and put his bib back on.

Forward John Kennedy was subsequently introduced in his place. Commenting on the incident, Menezes explained, “I was planning to bring Marcelo on at that point, but I heard something I didn’t appreciate and changed my mind.

“I put [John Kennedy] out on the wing; he’s a strong player, so we had an option. We’ve always had options. I don’t believe his introduction caused any issue for the team.

“It’s challenging to come in at that late stage of the game. He wasn’t being brought on to resolve any problems, just to help maintain our position, and there were only two or three minutes remaining.”

Marcelo made 68 appearances in all competitions during his second spell with Fluminense, capturing both the Rio de Janeiro state championship and the Copa Libertadores. These achievements add to an illustrious career for the left-back.

During his time with Real Madrid, Marcelo claimed six league titles, five Champions Leagues, two Copa del Rey trophies, and numerous other accolades. His tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu concluded in 2022, after which he joined Olympiacos, though he made just ten appearances before departing.