Marlon Set for Shakhtar Donetsk Return as Free Agent

Brazilian defender Marlon has agreed to rejoin Shakhtar Donetsk as a free agent. This is a big move for both Marlon and the Ukrainian club before the new season starts.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marlon, 29, is returning to Shakhtar Donetsk. The defender most recently played for LAFC in Major League Soccer. There, he played 16 games and scored one memorable goal in the 2024 season. He left in June when his contract ended. Marlon previously played for Shakhtar and helped them win the 2021 Ukrainian Super Cup. Now, he returns to a familiar defense at a key time for the club.

A previous report confirmed that Olivier Giroud ended his stint with LAFC in June 2025.

PLAYER’S CAREER SO FAR

Marlon started his career with Fluminense before moving to FC Barcelona, where he played in La Liga and the Champions League. He has also played for OGC Nice, Sassuolo, and Monza, with over 250 club appearances. He originally joined Shakhtar in 2021 and was important before leaving on loan. At LAFC, he helped the team win the U.S. Open Cup. He was also part of their important win to secure a top playoff seed.

According to a previous report, Olivier Giroud helped LAFC lift the U.S. Open Cup during his stay.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MARLON AND SHAKHTAR?

Shakhtar Donetsk finished the 2024-25 season strong and are getting ready for Champions League qualification rounds. They are trying to catch up to rivals Dynamo Kyiv, who finished just ahead in the Ukrainian Premier League. Marlon’s return is expected to strengthen their defense as Shakhtar aim for domestic wins and Champions League success. Their next game is a key league matchup that could decide their position in the opening weeks, as they are close to the top spot and want to get Marlon back in the team quickly.

Shakhtar Donetsk appointed Arda Turan as head coach until 2027, striving for better results and organizational change.

Shakhtar Donetsk plays home matches in Lviv due to the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine.