Official: Real Madrid confirm the departure of Reinier | OneFootball

Real Madrid have officially announced the departure of Brazilian midfielder Reinier Jesus, confirming that the 22-year-old has joined Atletico Mineiro on a permanent transfer.

Signed from Flamengo in January 2020 for €30 million, Reinier arrived in Madrid with high expectations, following the successful pathways of fellow Brazilians Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.

Touted as one of the brightest prospects in South America at the time, he was even compared to Kaka for his style of play and attacking flair.

A failed spell at the Bernabeu

However, his time in Spain never truly took off. In five years under contract with Los Blancos, Reinier did not make a single first-team appearance.

Instead, his career became a series of loan spells at Borussia Dortmund, Girona, Frosinone, and most recently Granada, none of which provided the breakthrough many had anticipated.

Can Reinier rediscover and revive his career upon his return to Brazil this summer? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Earlier this summer, he was linked with a loan move to Norwich City, but talks did not progress. Atletico Mineiro soon emerged as the frontrunners for his signature, with reports indicating that Madrid granted him a letter of freedom to facilitate his return to Brazil.

Now, with the deal confirmed, Reinier will have the chance to relaunch his career in his homeland.

In their statement, Real Madrid thanked Reinier for his professionalism during his years at the club and wished him and his family the best for the future.

For Reinier, this move represents a fresh start after a challenging chapter in Europe and an opportunity to prove that the talent which once excited Madrid’s scouts is still very much alive.