To say that Marcelo is smiling once again would be a lie, as the Brazilian never ceases to do so – one aspect in which he certainly resembles Roberto Carlos. But one thing that can be said is that his performances have returned to the level they were at under Mourinho – the Brazilian's number-one fan. "I love Marcelo", the Portuguese said in his first season at the club.
The Brazilian full-back has been at his best for several games, making him a decisive and essential player for the in-form Real. In games like the win over Levante, he can be unstoppable, a real tormentor, who is the BBC's deadliest accomplice. He participated in 57 attacks, played nine crosses into the box, won three corners, played 58 accurate passes, scored a goal and played a part in the third – statistics any winger would be proud of.
Marcelo's sublime form is welcome news for Real Madrid and Ancelotti, who had his doubts about the Brazilian's level of performance. The Italian is now under no doubt that an in-form Marcelo is light years ahead of Coentrao – who had been used in the position when available. But Marcelo's fine performance against Levante seems to make it clear.
Marcelo has finally come back from his foot injury sustained in 2012, after what has been a tough period for the Brazilian.
