Author: Soorya G
Brazilian team Fluminense have dismissed rumors of a possible rift in the dressing room involving several players, the most prominent of whom is Real Madrid’s Marcelo. The left-back was accused of being the reason behind the supposed disharmony that had been created in the group, saying that he had planted seeds of dissatisfaction within the group. The players denied allegations that Marcelo had been a negative influence on team morale as unfounded rumors and insisted that all is well within Fluminense. The younger players also praised Marcelo as a “team player” and a mentor.
Marcos Silva, affectionately known as Keno, spoke very highly of Marcelo, mentioning the vast experience he has under his sleeves. Keno praised the full-back as a “complete professional” and added that Marcelo’s humility was a lesson for all the younger players.
“We know that we work hard and trust everyone, especially the great players like Marcelo, Felipe (Melo) and Fábio, who are the most experienced. And what about Marcelo? A multi-champion, humble, team player. It’s empty talk to play in the group. That’s not going to happen here at Fluminense, people. The guy is professional, he talks to everyone, he’s a very humble guy, he takes the boys from Xerém there… We’re with him, with Felipe (Melo), we’re all together.” said Keno after Fluminense’s match at the iconic Maracanã.
Midfielder Gabriel Pirani, who is on loan from Santos, also shared his excellent personal relationship with Marcelo and mentioned that the 35-year-old is one of the friendliest players in the team.
“The atmosphere is good, as it always has been. I think everyone sees how happy we are when he (Marcelo) is on the pitch. I joked with him when we scored the first goal, he said: “Get ready, you’re going to score the second”. There’s something I said to him that I can’t tell you (laughs). We’re very happy with your feedback, we like it a lot. I don’t think what they’ve released is right“, concluded Pirani.