Ex-Real Madrid star Marcelo's contract terminated after public disagreement with coach

Former Real Madrid legend Marcelo has had his contract with Brazilian side Fluminense terminated following a heated public exchange with his head coach, Mano Menezes.

Marcelo, who returned to Fluminense in 2023 after a successful spell in Europe, where he earned six La Liga titles and five Champions League trophies, had initially been welcomed back as a hero.

However, his time in Brazil has been marred by controversies and rumours of tension with his teammates.

The breaking point came during Fluminense's 2-2 draw with Gremio, when a disagreement on the touchline escalated unexpectedly, leading the club to cancel Marcelo's contract.

Nearly two years after rejoining his boyhood club, Marcelo’s dream of retiring with the Brazilian Serie A team ended abruptly, with the ex-Real Madrid man agreeing to cancel his contract early.

The incident that ended Marcelo’s Fluminense romance unfolded as the Brazilian star was preparing to come onto the field as a substitute.

As Menezes was giving final instructions, Marcelo reacted sharply after being touched by the coach, reportedly leading to an angry exchange between the two.

In a surprising move, Menezes cancelled the substitution and sent Marcelo back to the bench, marking a rare and public fallout that stunned fans and players alike.

Following the clash, Fluminense management swiftly opted to release Marcelo from his contract, marking an abrupt end to his anticipated homecoming season.

With his departure from Fluminense, Marcelo is now a free agent, yet a return to Europe appears unlikely for the 36-year-old, making the Saudi Pro League his next possible destination.