- Reinier Jesus is set to leave Real Madrid after failing to make a single senior appearance for the Spanish powerhouse
- After five fruitless years in Europe, he’s making a surprise return to Brazil and could debut against his former club
- The lanky attacker was signed for a significant transfer fee five years ago when Zinedine Zidane was in charge as Real Madrid manager
Reinier Jesus’ European adventure is coming to an end as the Brazilian attacking midfielder, once seen as one of Real Madrid’s brightest young prospects, is reportedly set to join Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer.
His departure marks the end of a five-year spell at the Santiago Bernabeu that never quite lived up to expectations.
Source: Getty Images
Signed in January 2020 from Flamengo for a reported €30 million, Reinier arrived in Madrid with promise.
He had impressed at youth level and was even dubbed the next big talent to emerge from Brazil, following in the footsteps of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo.
But unlike his compatriots, Reinier failed to make a single senior appearance for Los Blancos.
Despite being highly rated upon his arrival, Reinier’s path to the Madrid first team was blocked by fierce competition. Therefore, he was loaned out in hopes of gaining experience and playing time.
According to Transfermarkt, his first stop was Borussia Dortmund, where he joined for a two-season stint from 2020 to 2022. Although he was part of the team that lifted the DFB-Pokal in 2021, his role was largely peripheral.
Subsequent loans at Girona, Frosinone, and, most recently, Granada offered glimpses of his talent, but consistency and injuries proved major hurdles.
Over those four loan spells, Reinier struggled to make a lasting impression, leading to growing concerns over his development and future.
Source: Getty Images
Reinier Jesus to sign for Atletico Mineiro
According to ESPN, 22-year-old Reinier is heading back to Brazil, with Atletico Mineiro offering him a fresh start and a chance to relaunch his career. He has reportedly agreed to a four-and-a-half-year deal, keeping him at the club until 2030.
Per the same source, Real Madrid, eager to offload a player they failed to integrate, is set to terminate his contract and let him leave for free. However, they have included a 50% sell-on clause, hoping to recoup some value should he flourish back home.
The move could be exactly what Reinier needs. Atletico Mineiro is one of Brazil’s top clubs, and returning to familiar surroundings may help him regain confidence and form.
At 6ft 1in, he still possesses the physical attributes and flair that once made him a standout prospect.
Reinier’s unveiling at Atletico Mineiro is expected this week. Depending on fitness and paperwork, he could debut in a high-profile clash against his former club Flamengo on Wednesday or next weekend against Vasco da Gama.
While his time in Europe may be seen as a disappointment, Reinier still has time on his side. A gold medalist with Brazil’s U-23 team at the Tokyo Olympics and a player with experience in some of Europe’s top leagues, he arrives in Belo Horizonte with a point to prove.
Modric leaves Real Madrid
YEN.com.gh earlier reported on Luka Modric’s future at Real Madrid before the Croatian international left the La Liga giants for AC Milan.
The veteran midfielder had reportedly wanted to extend his stay with Los Blancos, but the club had different ideas after missing out on all the major trophies they contested for last season.
Source: YEN.com.gh
