According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday October 17, 2026, former Real Madrid midfielder Reinier Jesus has opened up about his disappointing spell at the Spanish giants, admitting that his experience did not meet his expectations while refusing to rule out a return to Spanish football in the future.

The Brazilian attacking midfielder joined Real Madrid in 2020 for approximately €30 million after impressing in his homeland. However, he struggled to establish himself at the Santiago Bernabeu and never made a senior first-team appearance for the club.

Instead, Reinier spent time on loan at Borussia Dortmund, Girona, Frosinone and Granada before returning to Brazil to join Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer in 2025.

Now attempting to rebuild his career, the midfielder has reflected on his time in Spain, explaining how the experience helped him mature despite failing to achieve his original ambitions.

Speaking in an interview with AS, Reinier admitted that his Real Madrid experience was not what he had anticipated.

“It wasn’t at all what I’d expected, but I think I’ve matured a great deal in every respect,” he said.

Despite his disappointment, the Brazilian insisted that he does not have any significant regrets about joining the Spanish club.

He explained that his biggest disappointment was not getting the opportunity to spend a full season with Real Madrid's senior team, suggesting that the lack of consistent first-team football played a decisive role in how his career unfolded.

His successive loan spells provided opportunities to gain experience, but he was unable to convince Madrid's coaching staff that he deserved a regular place in the first team.

Although his time at Real Madrid did not develop as planned, Reinier retains positive memories of the people he encountered at the club.

The Brazilian specifically mentioned Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, praising their support and the experience of working within an environment filled with footballing legends.

Reinier revealed that he had the closest relationship with Raul, who helped him during his time in Madrid's development structure.

“I was in closer contact with Raul. He taught me a great deal,” the midfielder explained.

He also suggested that Zidane appreciated his playing style, although he was on loan at Borussia Dortmund while the Frenchman was managing Madrid.

Reinier had less contact with Ancelotti but described the Italian as respectful, adding that he would have liked the opportunity to work with him.

The midfielder also highlighted his relationships with Madrid's Brazilian players, explaining that they were among those with whom he felt closest during his time at the club.

These comments suggest that, despite his professional disappointment, Reinier does not look back on his experience with bitterness.

Reinier has not completely abandoned the possibility of returning to European football, even though his first spell in Spain proved difficult.

Asked whether he would consider another opportunity in Spain, the Brazilian indicated that he would be open to the idea.

However, he stressed that his immediate priority is Atletico Mineiro, who showed confidence in him by bringing him back to Brazil.

“Why not? Who wouldn’t want to? But now isn’t the right time, and I’m 100% focused on Atletico Mineiro, who have put their trust in me and my football, and have gone to great lengths to sign me,” he said.