MADRID – Former Real Madrid and Brazil left-back Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in his position, is channeling his post-playing career energy into developing the next generation of footballers. Having retired in 2024 after a decorated 20-year professional career, Marcelo is now focused on providing opportunities for young athletes through his holding company, Group Doze, and collaborative projects with Real Madrid and Abbott.
Marcelo, 37, announced his retirement earlier this year, bringing to a close a career that included 25 trophies with Real Madrid and a significant role with the Brazilian national team. He described the decision as surprisingly simple, reflecting on two decades at the highest level of the sport. “For me it was easy: I started to play with 16, I left with 36, it’s 20 years playing and I did it particularly well. I left it where I had to exit it, for me it was very easy,” he stated, according to reports from EFE.
The transition from player to entrepreneur hasn’t slowed Marcelo down. In fact, he reports being busier than ever. “I have many things, I am doing many things, especially with Group Doze,” he said. “It’s something I have specifically to assist young people, to have them close and for them to be footballers, but trying to help with my experiences.” Group Doze not only provides football training and personal support but also offers player representation services. Among its current clients are Enzo Alves Vieira, Marcelo’s son, and José Antonio Reyes, son of the former Utrera player.
Marcelo’s commitment extends beyond his own venture. He is collaborating with Real Madrid and Abbott, a multinational healthcare company, on initiatives aimed at educating young athletes about nutrition. This echoes a similar role previously held by another Real Madrid legend, Roberto Carlos, who continues to represent the club in charitable endeavors worldwide.
Throughout his career, Marcelo consistently demonstrated an attacking flair from the left-back position, becoming a mainstay for both Real Madrid and Brazil. He joined Real Madrid in January 2007, quickly establishing himself as a key player and accumulating an impressive 546 appearances for the club. His trophy cabinet boasts five UEFA Champions League titles and six La Liga titles, among other accolades. He also represented Brazil 58 times, participating in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups, and earning Olympic medals in 2008 and 2012.
However, Marcelo emphasizes that his current work isn’t about “repaying” a debt, but rather about providing opportunities he didn’t have earlier in his own career. “It’s not about returning what I’ve been given, since no one has given me anything for free,” he explained. “But as someone fortunate, I seek to give everything I didn’t have when I was young.” This includes providing the support, training, and platform for young players to develop both on and off the pitch.
Marcelo’s journey to success wasn’t without its challenges. He arrived at Real Madrid as a relatively unknown player alongside Gonzalo Higuaín and Fernando Gago, and initially faced competition for a starting role. He even played as a volante (midfielder) before cementing his position as a left-back. He ultimately navigated the demands of one of the world’s most prestigious clubs and lived up to the legacy of previous Real Madrid greats like Roberto Carlos.
The former defender’s focus now is on identifying and nurturing talent, a pursuit he finds deeply rewarding. He’s actively involved in scouting and development programs, aiming to provide young players with the guidance and resources they demand to achieve their dreams. “I’m finding young people to explain, to help, to teach them the path so they can fulfill their dreams,” he said, highlighting the synergy between his work with Group Doze, Real Madrid, and Abbott.
Marcelo’s transition demonstrates a commitment to the future of football, leveraging his experience and platform to empower the next generation. While his playing days are over, his influence on the sport continues to grow, now focused on shaping the careers of aspiring footballers and ensuring they have the support he believes is crucial for success.
Looking ahead, Marcelo will continue to oversee the operations of Group Doze and collaborate with Real Madrid and Abbott on youth development initiatives. His son, Enzo Alves Vieira, is currently progressing through the Real Madrid academy, carrying on the family’s footballing legacy. The next steps for Group Doze include expanding its scouting network and increasing the range of services offered to young players.
