CRISTIANO RONALDO has completed one of the most remarkable transfers in history by joining Juventus for £88million.
The Portuguese superstar ends his nine trophy-laden years at Real Madrid and will begin a new chapter in his illustrious career.
REUTERS: Cristiano Ronaldo has left Real Madrid for Juventus making it one of the most famous transfers in history
A statement posted on Real Madrid’s official website read: “In response to the will and request expressed by Cristiano Ronaldo, he has agreed to transfer to Juventus FC.
“Today, 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.
“Beyond the titles, the trophies achieved and the triumphs on the pitch during these 9 years, Cristiano Ronaldo has been an example of dedication, work, responsibility, talent and improvement.
“He has also become the top scorer in the history of Real Madrid with 451 goals in 438 games. In total he won 16 titles, including 4 European Cups, 3 of them consecutive and 4 in the last 5 seasons.
REUTERS: Cristiano Ronaldo has moved on after nine remarkable years at the club
AFP: Real Madrid paid tribute to “the best player in the world”
“For Real Madrid Cristiano Ronaldo will always be one of his great symbols and a unique reference for the next generations.
Ronaldo, 33, expressed his gratitude to the Spanish club but insisted it was time for a new challenge.
In a statement he wrote: “These years in Real Madrid, and in this city of Madrid, have been possibly the happiest of my life.
“I only have feelings of enormous gratitude for this club, for this hobby and for this city. I can only thank all of them for the love and affection I have received.
AFP OR LICENSORS: Ronaldo scored one of the all-time great Champions League goals with his wonderful bicycle kick against Juventus last year
“However, I believe that the time has come to open a new stage in my life and that is why I have asked the club to accept transferring me. I feel that way and I ask everyone, and especially our followers, to please understand me.
“They have been absolutely wonderful for 9 years. They have been 9 unique years. It has been an exciting time for me, full of consideration but also hard because Real Madrid is of a very high demand, but I know very well that I will never forget that I have enjoyed football here in a unique way.
“I have had fabulous teammates in the field and in the dressing room, I have felt the warmth of an incredible crowd and together we have won 3 Champions in a row and 4 Champions in 5 years.
“And with them also, on an individual level, I have the satisfaction of having won 4 Ballon d’Ors and 3 Golden Boots. All during my time in this immense and extraordinary 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: thanks to the club, the President, the directors, my colleagues, all the technicians, doctors, physios and incredible workers that make everything work and that are pending every detail tirelessly.
“Thank you infinitely once more to our fans and thanks also to Spanish Football. During these 9 exciting years I have had great players in front of me. My respect and my recognition for all of them.
“I have reflected a lot and I know that the time has come for a new cycle. I’m leaving but this shirt, this shield and the Santiago Bernabéu will continue to always feel as my own wherever I am.
“Thanks to all and, of course, as I said that first time in our stadium 9 years ago: Hala Madrid!”
Juventus will almost certainly be forced into selling some of their stars to fund the deal.
Now, Gonzalo Higuain, Alex Sandro and Daniele Rugani all look set to leave this summer.
