Brazilian midfielder Reinier Jesus has completed his departure from Real Madrid, joining Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer after five years at the Santiago Bernabeu. The 23-year-old’s move marks the end of a challenging period in Europe, returning to Brazil where he hopes to reignite his career.
Midfielder Reinier has been allowed to leave Real Madrid on a free transfer. He has joined the Brazilian side Atletico Mineiro, with Los Blancos having a 50% sell-on clause. This arrangement ensures Real Madrid maintains a financial interest in any future transfer involving the player.
Despite being under contract until June 2026, Real Madrid have decided to allow Reinier Jesus to leave on a free transfer to Atletico Mineiro. According to Globo Esporte, Los Blancos will retain 50% of the player’s economic rights as part of the deal. This decision represents a practical approach to recovering some value from what has been an unsuccessful investment.
The Brazilian will reportedly terminate his contract with Madrid, but the Spanish club will retain 50% of his rights in anticipation of a future sale. The deal would see Reinier join Galo on a free transfer, with a contract running through to 2030. The lengthy contract period indicates Atletico Mineiro’s long-term commitment to the player’s development.
Background to Madrid Struggles
The Brazilian player signed for Real Madrid for €30 million and never made his debut with the first team. This stark statistic encapsulates the extent of Reinier’s struggles during his time at the Spanish capital, despite the significant investment made in his potential.
Reinier Jesus is set to leave Real Madrid after having been unable to make a single appearance for the senior team, claims journalist Ben Fernandes. The 23-year-old midfielder is poised to join Atletico Mineiro in the summer window. His inability to break into the first team despite multiple opportunities has ultimately led to this departure.
The Brazilian failed to make his mark on the team, being bout back in 2020. The timing of his initial arrival, coming after the successful integration of compatriots Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo, made his struggles more pronounced by comparison.
Loan Spell Experiences
Reinier’s departure comes after a series of failed loan spells at various clubs, including Real Madrid, Frosinone, Girona and most recently, Granada. These temporary moves were designed to provide him with playing time and development opportunities that never materialized at Madrid.
The loan system, typically used by Real Madrid to develop young talent, proved ineffective in Reinier’s case. His experiences across different leagues and tactical systems failed to produce the breakthrough performance that might have earned him a place in Madrid’s first-team plans.
Each loan spell represented an opportunity for Reinier to prove his worth and justify Madrid’s initial investment. The consistent failure to establish himself during these periods ultimately sealed his fate at the Bernabeu.
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Return to Brazilian Football
Now 23, Reinier is hoping to reignite his career back in familiar surroundings. The move could be exactly what Reinier needs. Atletico Mineiro is one of Brazil’s top clubs, and returning to familiar surroundings may help him regain confidence and form.
Atletico Mineiro represents an ideal landing spot for Reinier’s career resurrection. The club’s stature in Brazilian football provides a platform where he can showcase his abilities without the intense pressure that accompanied his European experience.
The cultural and linguistic familiarity of returning to Brazil should eliminate adaptation challenges that may have contributed to his European struggles. Playing in an environment where he understands the tactical nuances and cultural expectations could unlock the potential that originally attracted Real Madrid’s attention.
Strategic Implications
For Real Madrid, this departure represents both a financial write-off and a learning experience. However, they have included a 50% sell-on clause, hoping to recoup some value should he flourish back home. This structure allows Madrid to benefit from any future success Reinier might achieve.
The 50% sell-on clause demonstrates Madrid’s belief that Reinier still possesses untapped potential. Should he rediscover his form in Brazil, the clause ensures Madrid participates in any financial benefit from a future transfer.
Future Prospects and Expectations
Reinier’s move to Atletico Mineiro offers him a fresh start in an environment better suited to his development needs. The pressure-free atmosphere of Brazilian football, combined with regular playing opportunities, could prove crucial in rebuilding his confidence and form.
At 23, Reinier still has time to fulfill the potential that made him one of Brazil’s most promising young talents. His experience in European football, despite its challenges, has provided him with valuable lessons that could benefit his future development.
The success of this move will ultimately be measured by Reinier’s ability to establish himself as a key player for Atletico Mineiro and potentially earn a recall to the Brazilian national team. For Real Madrid, the sell-on clause ensures they remain invested in his success story.
