Why did ronaldo leave real madrid?

By HotBotUpdated: July 26, 2024

Answer

The End of an Era: Ronaldo's Departure

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most iconic footballers in the history of Real Madrid, shocked the world when he decided to leave the club in the summer of 2018. His departure marked the end of a golden era for the Spanish giants and raised numerous questions among fans and pundits alike. Understanding the reasons behind Ronaldo's exit requires delving into various facets of his career and relationship with the club.

Contractual Disputes and Financial Aspects

One of the primary reasons for Ronaldo's departure was related to contractual and financial issues. Despite being one of the highest-paid players in the world, Ronaldo felt that his salary did not reflect his contributions and status within the team. Comparisons with other top earners like Lionel Messi and Neymar, who were earning significantly more, left Ronaldo feeling undervalued.

In 2017, Ronaldo expressed his desire for a pay rise, but negotiations with the club did not yield the desired outcome. Real Madrid's president, Florentino Pérez, was reportedly reluctant to meet Ronaldo's demands, which led to growing tension between the player and the club's management. This financial discontent played a significant role in Ronaldo seeking a new challenge elsewhere.

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Relationship with Florentino Pérez

Ronaldo's relationship with Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, was another critical factor in his decision to leave. While Pérez had played a crucial role in bringing Ronaldo to the club in 2009, their relationship became increasingly strained over the years. Ronaldo felt that Pérez did not offer him the same level of support and appreciation as he did during the earlier stages of his career at Real Madrid.

Moreover, Pérez's public comments about potentially signing other high-profile players, such as Neymar, further fueled Ronaldo's feelings of being undervalued and unappreciated. This lack of mutual respect and understanding contributed significantly to Ronaldo's decision to move on from Real Madrid.

Desire for a New Challenge

After spending nine successful seasons at Real Madrid, Ronaldo was eager for a new challenge. Having won numerous domestic and international titles, including four UEFA Champions League trophies, Ronaldo felt he had achieved everything he could at the club. The prospect of joining a new team and proving himself in a different league was a motivating factor for the Portuguese superstar.

Juventus, one of Italy's most prestigious clubs, presented an enticing opportunity for Ronaldo. The Serie A giants were keen to bolster their squad with a player of Ronaldo's caliber and were willing to meet his financial demands. The challenge of conquering a new league and helping Juventus achieve their long-standing dream of winning the Champions League was an exciting prospect for Ronaldo.

The Influence of Jorge Mendes

Jorge Mendes, Ronaldo's agent, played a pivotal role in orchestrating his move to Juventus. Mendes, known for his ability to secure high-profile transfers, was instrumental in negotiating the terms of Ronaldo's contract with the Italian club. His strong relationships with key figures in the footballing world allowed him to facilitate a smooth transition for Ronaldo.

Mendes' influence cannot be underestimated, as he has been a trusted advisor and confidant to Ronaldo throughout his career. His expertise and connections were crucial in ensuring that Ronaldo's move to Juventus was both financially and professionally beneficial.

Personal Reasons and Family Considerations

Ronaldo's decision to leave Real Madrid was also influenced by personal reasons and family considerations. The move to Italy offered a new environment and lifestyle for Ronaldo and his family. Turin, the home city of Juventus, provided a quieter and less media-intensive setting compared to Madrid. This change was appealing to Ronaldo, who valued the well-being and privacy of his family.

Additionally, the lower tax rates in Italy were a financial incentive for Ronaldo. The favorable tax conditions allowed him to retain more of his earnings, making the move to Juventus even more attractive from an economic standpoint.

Legacy and Impact on Real Madrid

Ronaldo's departure from Real Madrid left an indelible mark on the club. His contributions to the team's success during his nine-year tenure were unparalleled. Ronaldo scored an astonishing 450 goals in 438 appearances, making him the club's all-time leading scorer. His impact on the pitch was matched by his influence off it, as he became a global ambassador for the club.

Real Madrid faced significant challenges in filling the void left by Ronaldo. The search for a suitable replacement proved difficult, and the team struggled to replicate the same level of success in the subsequent seasons. Ronaldo's departure highlighted the importance of his presence and the difficulty of replacing a player of his caliber.

Concluding Thoughts

Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from Real Madrid was the result of a combination of factors, including contractual disputes, strained relationships, the desire for a new challenge, and personal considerations. His move to Juventus marked the end of a remarkable chapter in his career and the beginning of a new adventure. The legacy he left behind at Real Madrid continues to be celebrated by fans and serves as a testament to his greatness.