Real Madrid’s star man is officially heading out to Turin where he will play for Serie A giants, Juventus. Here’s a look at the move.
The good ole saying in science, what goes up, must come down was the epitome of Ronaldo’s departure. One way or another the Portuguese man was going to leave Real Madrid. The way it happened though is not something many saw coming, at least before the rumors started.
#GraciasCristiano pic.twitter.com/VEptaZIlfa
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) July 10, 2018
From ending their hopes of a Champions League title in back to back seasons, Ronaldo is joining Juve. Cristiano made it clear to Florentino Perez and Real Madrid of his desire to leave the Capital and move out. The speculation started just minutes after the 2018 UCL Final and has come to a close exactly one month and one week later.
The Move
Earlier today Real Madrid announced on their Official page that Cristiano is in fact leaving. The statement made it clear that the 5 time Ballon d’Or winner left on his own merit and was not by any means pushed out. Despite that though, rumors always circulated that Ronaldo and Perez were always on different pages.
After 9 seasons with Real Madrid, Ronaldo was sold to Juventus on a €100 million transfer fee. In addition to being a record-breaking transfer fee in Serie A, Juventus will pay €12 million in supplemental fees. Ronaldo, now 33 years-old has been granted a €55 million annual salary from the Italian club on a 4-year deal. Oddly enough, sources report that Madrid gave matched Juventus’ offer but the winger still opted to head out.
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Cristiano’s original release clause was set at €1 billion but because of his desire to leave it was dropped to a tenth of the original. This could have been done in an effort to purchase newer and younger talent across Europe.
His biggest task will, of course, be the Champions League as Juventus have not hoisted the trophy since the 1995/96 season. Having already won it five times with both Manchester United and Real Madrid’ he’ll sure be up for the challenge.
Farwell Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo penned together a thoughtful letter to his fans at Real Madrid which was posted on the clubs official website. He expressed his utmost gratitude and appreciation for his time in the capital hoping that fans understand his move.
"I have only feelings of great thanks towards this club, these fans, and this city. I can only but thank all of them for the kindness and affection I’ve been shown."
The letter states that he has left seeking new challenges to face. There is no doubt that he will go down in history as one of the best Real Madrid players of all times. He will now look to take his talents to another league in hopes of domination.
"However, I believe that the time has come to embark on a new chapter in my life and that’s why I asked the club to allow me to move on. This is how I feel and I would ask everyone, in particular our fans, for their understanding."
Cuando una leyenda del Real Madrid como tú decide emprender otro camino no hay mayor muestra de gratitud y respeto que abrirte las puertas de la que siempre será tu casa.
— Álvaro Arbeloa (@aarbeloa17) July 10, 2018
Ha sido un orgullo luchar a tu lado.
Nos vemos pronto, @Cristiano.
¡Buena suerte y gracias por tanto! pic.twitter.com/clJ6QXoGQU
Appreciation and goodbyes were also shared by current and past players of Madrid. Both expressed their appreciation for what he has given to the club, his brotherhood and how he will be missed.
.@Cristiano, your goals, your numbers and everything we've won together speak for themselves. You have earned a special place in the history of @RealMadrid. As Madridistas we'll remember you always. It's been a pleasure to play alongside you, bicho. Big hig and good luck! 🍀👍🏻 pic.twitter.com/NaywaDd3gw
— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) July 10, 2018