He was celebrated as “one of the foremost emerging talents in the global game” and was even predicted to possess greater potential than Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior upon his arrival at Real Madrid.
So, what has transpired with Reinier Jesus, five years later? In January 2020, Real Madrid triumphed over several elite European clubs, including Manchester City and Barcelona, to secure the highly anticipated signing of attacking midfielder Jesus on a six-year contract. The transfer fee? €30 million (£25.6m).
This move was a clear declaration of intent from Los Blancos, who were resolute in their aim not to miss out on the next South American sensation after witnessing Neymar’s transfer to Barcelona.
According to the club, Jesus’ strengths at that time encompassed technical skills and “creative talent on the ball,” which he had demonstrated throughout the 2019 season, assisting Flamengo in securing the Brazilian league title and Copa Libertadores. Flamengo’s manager, Jorge Jesus, was infuriated by the transfer. In an interview with Portuguese television, he remarked that a player like Reinier “cannot be sold for €30 million” and criticized Flamengo for not knowing how to appreciate its brand.
Although Jesus was regarded as one of the most promising midfielders of his generation, after several months with Castilla, he was transferred to Borussia Dortmund on a two-year loan. During his time at the Bundesliga club, he made 39 appearances and scored once.
The attacking midfielder returned to Real Madrid in 2022; however, the Brazilian again found it challenging to leave a mark under Carlo Ancelotti and was subsequently loaned out once more, this time to fellow La Liga team Girona, where he participated in 18 La Liga matches.
Despite demonstrating potential at Girona, he was sidelined for several months due to injury and managed to score only twice in 620 minutes of play.
Jesus subsequently had loan spells at Serie A club Frosinone, where he made 23 appearances across all competitions, as well as at La Liga team Granada last season. However, he continues to be on the fringes at Real Madrid.
In fact, back in September, the then-Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti provided a significant response to a question regarding Jesus’ future. “I suggest he seeks a team where he can showcase his abilities,” he stated.
Ten months after Ancelotti’s straightforward remarks, Jesus is still a Real Madrid player, yet the Brazilian is not included in Xabi Alonso’s plans as pre-season approaches.
A report from Marca indicates that the 23-year-old is not even being considered by Castilla as he readies himself for the upcoming season in his home country of Brazil, accompanied by a ‘trusted fitness trainer’ and a physiotherapist.