Former Real Madrid starlet explains decision to leave – ‘Was going through a difficult time’ | OneFootball

Alex Jimenez was one of the players tipped for a bright future when he was coming through the ranks at the Real Madrid youth academy.

The 19-year-old right-back, though, opted to part ways with the Spanish capital club in 2023, when he joined AC Milan on a season-long loan deal.

While the youngster did not play very regularly for the Italian giants, he did enough to convince them to activate the €5 million buy option last summer, making his switch permanent.

Jimenez has since developed into a regular for the Rossoneri and has racked up 33 appearances in total for the first team and reserves combined, even scoring four goals.

Alex Jimenez opens up on Real Madrid exit

Speaking to the Italian club’s website earlier this week, Jimenez touched upon his decision to leave Real Madrid and sign for AC Milan.

“I was going through a difficult time at Real Madrid. My family and agent advised me to make a change, and when Milan came forward, I did not think twice. I love Milan,” he said.

Alex Jimenez (L) left Real Madrid for Milan. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“This club will always have a place in my heart for giving me the chance to debut with the first team. I cannot put into words what this club means to me. I love everything about Milan,” he added.

At the same time, Jimenez acknowledged that he has not forgotten his time at Real Madrid, saying:

“Real Madrid scouted me when I was seven years old at a tournament I was playing in the city. I spent 11 years there. I saw many great players, and when I trained with the first team, it was a truly special moment.”

Real Madrid, for their part, are still closely monitoring the development of Jimenez at AC Milan, given that they have a buyback option as well as a future sell-on clause for the youngster.

Source: Mundo Deportivo