Real exit for Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos has confirmed that he is to end an 11-year association with Real Madrid.

The Brazilian left-back has decided against renewing his contract in the Spanish capital in order to take up a fresh challenge elsewhere.

In over a decade at Madrid the 33-year-old has established himself as one of the club's greats, with a highly decorated career seeing him swell his trophy cabinet with three European Cups, three league titles and two World Club Cups during his time at the club.

"I'm not going to renew my contract. I think the moment has come for me to put an end to my time at the club and leave them to start a new project," he told Marca.

"I'm sure about it. My time at Real Madrid has ended. After three years without winning anything I had to take a decision.

"I don't know whether I will continue in Europe or maybe I need to be back in Brazil close to my family."

Roberto Carlos has previously been strongly linked with Chelsea but while he concedes he is ready to try 'another country', it remains to be seen where he pitches up next.

"My departure will help the youngsters like Marcelo and Miguel Torres," he added.

"They are the future and have to be given a chance to develop. I have to look for motivation in another team, another country, another place."