Reinier Jesus bids farewell to Real Madrid, joins Atletico Mineiro on free transfer

After five challenging years in Europe, Reinier Jesus has officially returned to Brazil, where he hopes to relaunch his career with Atletico Mineiro. 

Though the move has not yet been formally announced by the club, the 23-year-old was greeted by fans at Belo Horizonte International Airport on Wednesday, signaling his imminent arrival at the Brazilian side.

Reinier’s time in Europe was marked by unfulfilled potential and a lack of stability. 

Signed by Real Madrid in 2020 for €30 million with high expectations, the attacking midfielder never managed to break into the first team. 

Instead, he spent five seasons on loan at various clubs without making a single senior appearance for Los Blancos.

Speaking to the press upon his arrival in Brazil, Reinier opened up about his struggles in Europe. 

“I was looking for my happiness. I was on loan for five years. I was not happy,” he said. He described being emotionally moved by the reception from Atletico Mineiro fans and expressed his excitement to begin this new chapter: “When I arrived, I could already hear it. I even got goose bumps. My mother almost cried.”

The Brazilian also spoke highly of the efforts made by Atletico Mineiro to secure his signature. According to Reinier, sporting director Paulo Bracks and manager Victor Leandro showed consistent interest and belief in his abilities. 

He also consulted with head coach Cuca before deciding to join the project, which he believes “will work out very well.”

Despite still having a year left on his contract with Real Madrid, Reinier leaves the Spanish giants on a free transfer.

However, Madrid have reportedly retained 50% of the player’s rights, potentially allowing them to benefit from any future resale value.

Once considered one of Brazil’s brightest young prospects, Reinier now has the opportunity to reset his career in familiar surroundings. 

Backed by a supportive environment at Atletico Mineiro, the former Flamengo prodigy will aim to rediscover the form and confidence that once made him a coveted talent on the global stage.