The difference between Marcelo and many other attacking fullbacks of this generation is that he was actually untouchable in his prime, especially in attack. The defensive side of his game wasn't the best but he was so good in attack that he could change games on his own. [THREAD]

While the defensive weakness was always apparent, having the ability to more than make up for it in attack is really rare. That's why he started all the big games for us in our UCL winning runs. And that's why he was one of our best players on the pitch.

With Ronaldo drifting to central areas later into his career, Marcelo made the left wing his own.

The loss of pace more recently has really hampered his impact though. Unfortunate because he could've been a big tool versus low blocks and teams that transition slowly.

Marcelo is also one of those players who's had a bit of a resurgence this season. When called upon he's done really well defensively except for a game or two. Not his best season by any means but still an important part of the team.

There's also the leadership dynamic he brings to the team. There isn't a more loved player within the squad than him. He's been a mentor to the talents coming through & has helped integrate them with the squad.

He also personally went to watch Asensio's recovery programme!

I see him staying at Real Madrid for atleast another season. Which means that Sergio Reguilón might miss out on making it here, atleast in the short term... especially considering Mendy's incredible rise.

It's unfortunate because Sergio Reguilón has arguably been the best performing fullback in the league. But Zidane seems to trust Mendy & everyone who watches Real Madrid play knows that Mendy is one of the reasons for Real Madrid's watertight defense.

Marcelo's legacy at Real Madrid at the end of his career will be greater than that of Roberto Carlos. That was unfathomable when Roberto Carlos left the club. He's persevered through tough times but has also been crucial in our rise to the top in Europe.

For a boy who almost quit football as a child, to come to the biggest club in the world with all the pressure of replacing an all time great fullback in Roberto Carlos, I'd say Marcelo has done more than well for himself. He should be proud of what he's done & achieved.

I'll end with this quote from Marcelo (in the Player's Tribune) and quite possibly my favourite quote of all time.

https://www.theplayerstribune.com/en-us/articles/marcelo-real-madrid-brother-i-have-some-stories-to-tell