[citation needed] He is known for his moustache and his performance at Sporting, nicknamed him "O Imperador".
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Marco Aurélio started his career at hometown club América.
He then played two Campeonato Brasileiro Série A season for Vasco da Gama, also located at Rio de Janeiro.
Except 1992–93 season at Liga de Honra, he made 94 appearances at Portuguese top division.
In 1998–99 season, he had some argument with Mirko Jozić and partially the reason he left the club.