Marcelo was an icon at the Santiago Bernabéu, and the Brazil and Real Madrid legend spent 15 years at the Bernabeu, where he became the club’s most decorated player of all time, winning 25 trophies with Los Blancos before his departure in 2022.

Marcelo, now 34, was seen as one of the best left-backs in the world during his hey days, and he still has fond memories of the El Clasico battles he featured in.

Speaking to The Athletic, Marcelo admitted Barca legend Lionel Messi was the toughest he came up against.

“Messi is incredible, the toughest opponent I’ve ever faced,” he said of the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.

“We all know the quality he has even now, aged 35, and before it was the same.

“El Clasico has always been one of the best games to watch and play. I was lucky enough to have featured in one of the best eras of Clasicos.”