Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially joined Juventus after more than 8 years at Real Madrid.
In a farewell letter addressed to fans and published by Real, Cristiano Ronaldo discusses the reasons for his departure.
“These years in Real Madrid and in this city of Madrid have probably been the happiest years of my life. I only have feelings of gratitude for this club, for the fans and for the city. I want to thank you for the love and affection I have received. “
“However, I think the time has come to open a new stage in my life and that’s why I asked the club to accept my transfer. This is my decision and I ask everyone, especially my fans, to understand me. “
“These nine years have been wonderful. They were unique. It was an exciting time, full of consideration, but also difficult because Real Madrid has a very high requirement, but I know very well that I will never forget that here I enjoyed football in a unique way. “
“I had fabulous teammates, both in the field and in the locker room. I felt the heat of an incredible crowd and together we won the Champions League three consecutive times and four Champions League in five years. In addition, as an individual, I had the satisfaction of winning four Golden Balls and three Golden Shoes. My time in this club has been huge and extraordinary. “
“Real Madrid has won my heart and my family’s heart and because of that, now more than ever, I would like to say thank you, thank you to the club, the president, the directors, my teammates, all the staff , to the doctors, to the physiotherapists and to all the incredible people who work there in each of their capacities and who pay a tireless attention to every little detail. “
“Thank you so much again to our fans. During these 9 exciting years, I had great players with me. My respect and my gratitude are for all those mentioned. I have thought a lot and I know that the time has come for a new cycle. I’m leaving, but this jersey, this shield, this badge and the Santiago Bernabéu will always remain in my heart wherever I am. Thank you all and, of course, as I said this first time in our stadium 9 years ago: Hala Madrid! “
According to the Spanish press, the transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo has been negotiated at 105 million euros. And in addition to his four-year contract that brings him 30 million euros each season, the star will keep his number 7 he wears since 2008.