Marcelo Set for Nantes Ambassador Role

Marcelo could join FC Nantes as an ambassador if a takeover of the Ligue 2 club goes through, according to a report in L'Équipe.

The move would come as part of a consortium led by Paulo Tavares, a 62-year-old Franco-Portuguese businessman and former players' agent, who is working to buy Nantes. L'Équipe describes the talks as "very advanced" and says it has seen a document setting out Tavares' plans for the club, which names Marcelo as a potential ambassador.

Also in Tavares' camp are Fabrice Pancrate, another former footballer, and Cyril Linette, a former executive at Canal+ and L'Équipe. All three would join the new ownership group if the deal for Nantes is completed.

Marcelo ended his playing career in 2025 after two seasons at Fluminense.

Nantes need a change of fortune off the pitch as much as on it. Waldemar Kita, who has owned the club since 2007, has confirmed three bids have been tabled for Les Canaris, whose recent seasons have been marked by heavy managerial turnover — three different managers were used last season alone before the club was relegated to Ligue 2.

Should the takeover proceed, Marcelo's role would be limited to representing the club rather than any part in team affairs, with Nantes looking to rebuild both its finances and its image in the second tier.