Marcelo to Instagram followers: 'Shut the f**k up idiots'

Social media can be a great place to communicate directly with your fans, and it doesn't get more direct than this from Real Madrid's Marcelo.

Marcelo playing for Real Madrid. Source: Getty Images

February 5 is a special day when it comes to Footballers' birthdays. 

Born on that day are Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Carlos Tevez, Gheorghe Hagi, Cesare Maldini, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Vedran Corluka and the most legendary of all - John Aloisi. 

Real Madrid's Marcelo decided to pay tribute to his friend and Brazilian national team colleague Neymar on Instagram as it was the Barcelona striker's 25th birthday.

"Happy birthday. Wishing you good health, much love and success, love you!!" is a rough translation.

But some of Marcelo's followers were unhappy with this message of positivity.

Marcelo showed it's not just on the field that he can launch devastating counter-attacks.

The Madrid attacking full-back then went on to wish his friend and team-mate, Cristiano, a warm happy birthday.

"Bicho (nickname meaning beast) today is your day! Happy Birthday! All the best for you!" 

Marcelo. No filter.