Cristiano Ronaldo is a name that needs no introduction in the world of football. He is one of the greatest footballers of all time and played for some of the best teams in the world, including Real Madrid. However, in the summer of 2018, Ronaldo shocked the footballing world by deciding to leave the Los Blancos for Juventus.
This move left many fans wondering why he left a team where he enjoyed immense success, both individually and collectively. In this article, we will dive deep into the reasons that led to Ronaldo’s departure from Madrid and what this meant for the footballing world.
The Fall Out with the President
The first reason that led to Ronaldo leaving Madrid was the fall out he had with the president of the club, Florentino Perez. This was not the first time that the player and the president had disagreements, but it was the final straw that led to Ronaldo leaving the club.
The main issue between the two was the lack of financial recognition that Ronaldo received from the club despite being the club’s biggest asset. Ronaldo expressed his discontent on several occasions, which ultimately resulted in a fall out with Perez.
The Desire for a New Challenge
Another reason that led to the departure of Ronaldo from Madrid was his desire for a new challenge. Ronaldo had achieved almost everything a footballer could and had nothing left to prove in Spain. He had already won four Champions League titles with Madrid and had also won four Ballon d’Or awards during his tenure.
Therefore, he wanted to test himself in a new league and with a new challenge. The Italian Serie A, known for its physicality and tactical astuteness, was the perfect place for Ronaldo to showcase his skills and test himself in a new environment.
The Search for Better Wages
As mentioned before, Ronaldo was not happy with the financial recognition he received at Madrid. The player felt that he deserved higher wages, especially given his status as the club’s biggest asset. Madrid, however, was not willing to meet Ronaldo’s demands, and this became a significant issue between the two parties.
Juventus, on the other hand, was willing to meet Ronaldo’s demands, and this was a crucial factor in Ronaldo’s decision to leave Madrid. The Italian club offered the player a better salary and a more extended contract, which was precisely what Ronaldo wanted.
The Tax Evasion Charges
In 2017, Ronaldo was accused of tax evasion by the Spanish authorities. This, coupled with his disputes with Perez, was a significant factor that led to his departure from Madrid.
Ronaldo felt that the club could have done more to support him during this difficult time, but he did not receive the support he expected. Juventus, however, was more supportive of Ronaldo during this period, and this was another crucial reason why the player decided to leave Madrid.
The Desire to Leave on a High
Ronaldo’s departure from Madrid was also motivated by his desire to leave on a high. The player wanted to end his tenure with the club on a high note, and what better way to do it than by winning the Champions League for the fourth time in his career.
Real Madrid had won three consecutive Champions League titles, and Ronaldo was instrumental in each of those triumphs. Therefore, he wanted to leave the club while at the top of his game and after winning the biggest prize in European football in three consecutive seasons.
The Impact on the Footballing World
Ronaldo’s departure from Madrid had a significant impact on the footballing world. It was the most expensive transfer of the summer and sent shock waves throughout Europe. The player’s arrival at Juventus was met with excitement and anticipation, and he did not disappoint.
In his first season in Italy, Ronaldo scored 28 goals in all competitions and helped Juventus secure another Serie A title. His presence in Italy has reinvigorated the Serie A, and many football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating his second season at the club.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ronaldo’s departure from Madrid was motivated by several factors, including his fall out with the president, his desire for a new challenge, his search for better wages, the tax evasion charges, and his desire to leave on a high. This move had a significant impact on the footballing world and marked the end of an era.
Ronaldo remains one of the greatest footballers of all time, and his legacy will always be associated with Real Madrid, where he achieved the greatest success of his career. Despite his departure, the player’s influence on the footballing world remains as strong as ever, and he continues to be an inspiration to young footballers around the globe.
FAQ
1. Why did Ronaldo leave Real Madrid?
Ronaldo left Real Madrid for several reasons, including his fall out with the club’s president over financial recognition, his desire for a new challenge, his search for better wages, the tax evasion charges he was facing, and his desire to leave on a high note.
2. Where did Ronaldo go after leaving Real Madrid?
After leaving Real Madrid, Ronaldo joined Juventus, an Italian football club based in Turin. This move was considered the most expensive transfer of the summer and sent shock waves throughout the footballing world.
3. How did Ronaldo perform in his first season at Juventus?
In his first season at Juventus, Ronaldo scored 28 goals in all competitions and helped the club win another Serie A title. His arrival in Italy was met with excitement and anticipation, and he lived up to his reputation as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
4. What impact did Ronaldo’s departure have on Real Madrid?
Ronaldo’s departure from Real Madrid marked the end of an era and had a significant impact on the club. Real Madrid struggled to fill the void left by the player, and they have not won a Champions League title since his departure.
5. What is Ronaldo’s legacy at Real Madrid?
Ronaldo’s legacy at Real Madrid is one of greatness and success. He won four Champions League titles with the club and was instrumental in each of those triumphs. He also won four Ballon d’Or awards during his tenure at the club, cementing his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
