He was brought to Los Blancos in 2020 for a reported sum of €30 million.
When he arrived at Real Madrid, he was described as “one of the world’s most promising young stars” and was even considered to have more potential than Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior. But what has happened to Reinier Jesus five years later?
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Hyped transition as disappointed
In January 2020, Real Madrid won the battle for the signing of Brazilian striker Reinier Jesus ahead of clubs such as Manchester City and Barcelona. The transfer fee was 30 million euros, and the contract stretched over six years.
This was seen as a clear signal from Real Madrid, who were determined not to miss out on the next South American superstar after Neymar ended up at Barcelona.
According to the club, Jesus had impressed at the time with his technical talent and “creative ability with the ball”, which he showcased throughout the 2019 season when he helped Flamengo win both the Brazilian league and the Copa Libertadores.
Flamengos coach furious over sale
However, Flamengo’s coach Jorge Jesus was furious about the sale. In an interview with Portuguese television, he stated that a player like Reinier “cannot be sold for 30 million euros” and that Flamengo “does not understand how to value its own brand.”
Five years without a single game for Real Madrid
Nevertheless, five years after the transfer, Reinier Jesus has yet to play a single official match for Real Madrid. He has spent time on loan at Borussia Dortmund, Girona and Frosinone, but has not been able to establish himself anywhere.
Now, after being ordered to train separately from the main squad and being told to find a new club by Carlo Ancelotti, he is still under contract with Real Madrid – despite not being part of the former manager’s plans nor the new Xabi Alonso.
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