Reinier Jesus Departs Real Madrid as Xabi Alonso Looks to the Future

In a move that signals a clear shift in squad philosophy, Real Madrid and Brazilian midfielder Reinier Jesus have officially parted ways. After five years and multiple loan spells without a single first-team appearance, the 23-year-old has terminated his contract with the Spanish giants and is set to return to his home country to join Atlético Mineiro on a free transfer.

Reinier arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2020 with immense promise, a highly-touted young talent from Flamengo signed for a significant fee. However, his time in Madrid proved to be a series of struggles. Unsuccessful loan stints at Borussia Dortmund, Girona, Frosinone, and Granada left him unable to secure a place in the first team. Sources suggest that the player himself was unhappy with his situation in Europe, a sentiment he confirmed upon his return to Brazil. While the transfer is a free one, Real Madrid has reportedly retained a 50% sell-on clause, hoping to recoup some of their initial investment if Reinier's career flourishes in his new environment.

The departure of Reinier comes as new manager Xabi Alonso begins to shape the squad in his own image. Alonso has not been shy about making changes, and his focus appears to be on youth and academy talent. In a separate development, three players from the Castilla team have been called up to train with the first team: midfielder Manuel Ángel, defender Diego Aguado, and forward Daniel Yáñez.

While some of these players have had previous exposure to first-team training or even made a debut under the previous manager, their inclusion in Xabi Alonso's pre-season plans highlights a renewed emphasis on promoting from within. As the new manager prepares his side for the upcoming LaLiga campaign, the departures of players like Reinier and the integration of promising youngsters from the academy suggest a clear direction for the club's future.