After nine years, 16
trophies and 451 goals, Cristiano Ronaldo is leaving Real Madrid.
The Portugal star, 33, is to join reigning
Serie A champion Juventus from the Champions League holder for a reported $117
million transfer fee.
"Real Madrid wants to express its
gratitude to a player who has proved to be the best in the world and who has
marked one of the brightest times in the history of our club and world
football," said the Spanish club in a statement on Tuesday.
In an open letter to Real's fans, Ronaldo said
that he had "reflected a lot" and knew that "the time has come
for a new cycle."
Last season, the Portuguese star scored a
stunning bicycle kick against Juventus in Turin, which was widely viewed as one
of world's greatest ever Champions League goals.
Ronaldo had a barnstorming start to the World
Cup scoring a hat-trick against Spain in a 3-3 draw, before Portugal was knocked
out by Uruguay in the last 16 stage.
“I only have feelings of enormous
gratitude for this club and for this city,” Ronaldo wrote in an open letter to
Real Madrid fans. “I have had nine absolutely wonderful years at the club.
“Real
Madrid has conquered my heart, and that of my family, and that is why more than
ever I want to say thank you: thank you to the club, the president, the
directors, my colleagues, all the staff, doctors, physios and incredible people
that make everything work.”
He
finished his letter by saying: “Thanks to everyone and, of course, as I said
that first time in our stadium nine years ago: Hala Madrid!”
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