Marcelo: I don't feel like Real Madrid legend

Marcelo addressed the media at the press conference held after the tribute and farewell ceremony.

“Today is my happiest day here because I've done everything I set out to do and I leave here feeling happy. I leave behind a legacy for the youngsters. Watching Vini Jr, Rodrygo, Valverde, the youngsters, playing is absolutely priceless. Leaving here and being seen as the person I am is the most powerful thing for me. When I stop playing I'd like to get the chance to return to Real Madrid because of the way I try to treat everyone the same. I don't think there'll be a problem coming back, although I don't feel like I'm really leaving. I haven't thought about what I'm going to miss because you can't miss something you have”.

“I haven't thought about retiring, I think I can continue to play and play well. I don't think it would be a problem to play against Madrid because of the fondness I have for them. If I have to do it one day, I'm very professional and Madrid showed me how to be that way. I'm ready for anything that might come my way”.

“I don't feel like a legend. I've never considered myself one, everyone can think what they want. I feel like a player who wants to achieve goals and win things. As for the length of the contract, there's no issue with leaving a team. The world isn't ending now, I'm not going to stop living because I'm leaving Real Madrid. I've learnt a lot of beautiful things in life away from football. We've decided this together and today's a day for joy. I'll always be with Madrid, wherever I go I'll be just another fan. I couldn't be at Madrid without making a contribution and I wanted to leave via the front door, looking at everyone's faces and greeting them”.