Real Madrid €30 million flop breaks silence ahead of Brazil move – ‘I was not happy’ | OneFootball

Despite Atletico Mineiro not having made the move official yet, Reinier Jesus’ transfer to the Brazilian club from Real Madrid is all but confirmed.

After a disappointing spell in Europe, the attacking midfielder will attempt to relaunch his career in his home country.

Reinier joined Real Madrid five and a half years ago for €30 million, but never managed to adapt to European football.

The Brazilian spent several seasons on loan without establishing himself at any club. Once considered one of the most promising young talents in world football, he now leaves Real Madrid on a free transfer without making a single senior appearance.

The 23-year-old arrived in Brazil on Wednesday at Belo Horizonte International Airport, where he was greeted by Atletico Mineiro supporters.

Reinier was not happy in Europe

Speaking to the media in Brazil upon his arrival, Reinier expressed his happiness at being welcomed by Atletico Mineiro fans.

“When I arrived, I could already hear it. I even got goose bumps. My mother almost cried. I’m very happy to sign for the Galo, in my new home,” he said, as quoted by AS.

Reinier is back in Brazil. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

“I’m happy to have this affection, which I didn’t have before. Happy to be able to wear this shirt. I’m going to give everything on the pitch and I’m ready to help the team,” he added.

Continuing, Reinier admitted that he was never really happy at Real Madrid and in Europe, where he was continuously farmed out on loan.

“I was looking for my happiness. I was on loan for five years. I was not happy,” he said.

“Paulo Bracks (Mineiro’s sporting director) was after me, Victor Leandro, (club manager) too, he valued me and I spoke to coach Cuca. I’m very happy with the project and I think it will work out very well.”

Reinier joins Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer even though he still had a year left on his contract at Real Madrid. However, the report indicates that Los Blancos will still retain 50% of the player’s rights.