Marcelo joined The Buccaneers at the end of the recent transfer window from Brazilian club Nova Iguacu on undisclosed terms.
At just 20, he has been tipped as a bright prospect as the club looks to build towards the future, coming in as a rare left-footed centre-back.
Having arrived during pre-season in July, the Rio de Janeiro-born defender has settled in well and has given his assessment of the PSL after making two appearances thus far.
“I like South Africa a lot. Since I first arrived, I was very [warmly] welcomed by the people here. It’s a very nice place, I like it a lot,” Marcelo told his club’s YouTube channel.
“Is the football different to Brazil? Not much. I think the level of football here is good, very competitive. I like it, and I think I can develop a lot here.
“There are good teams [in the PSL], the league is very competitive. There are big teams with lots of supporters, it’s a very nice league.”
On his stay at Pirates, Marcelo says he has been warmly received by his colleagues and the staff and hopes to repay the club by contributing on the pitch.
“I like [playing for Pirates] a lot. Since I first came, I’ve felt welcome. The club is wonderful, the fanbase is huge and the players support me a lot,” he added.
“Since I first came [my teammates] received me with open arms, so I want to reciprocate this by giving it my all on the pitch. To go in and help the team, help Pirates.”
The towering sweeper has also vowed to commit himself fully in order to reach the club’s targets and make the Bucs faithful happy with his performances.
“You can expect a lot of heart, a lot of will from me. Since I came I’ve been giving my maximum so that when the opportunity comes [to play] I can perform well, help my teammates and make the supporters happy. Because since I first came I was very welcomed, everyone has treated me nicely, so I hope I can give my best on the pitch,” he concluded.