Cristiano Ronaldo bids farewell in emotional Real Madrid statement | OneFootball

After nine years, 438 games and 450 goals, Cristiano Ronaldo is no longer a Real Madrid player.

The 33-year-old’s stunning €100m transfer to Juventus was made official on Tuesday but before leaving Madrid, he took the time to say goodbye to the club at which he enjoyed some of the greatest years of his career.

“These years at Real Madrid, and in this city of Madrid, have been possibly the happiest of my life,” wrote the Portuguese in a statement released via Los Blancos’ official website.

“I only have feelings of enormous gratitude for this club, for these fans and for this city. I can only thank all of them for the love and affection I have received.

“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 supporters, to please understand me.

“They have been absolutely wonderful for nine years. They have been nine 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 team-mates in the field and in the dressing room, I have felt the warmth of an incredible crowd and together we have won three Champions Leagues in a row and four Champions Leagues in five years. And with them also, on an individual level, I have the satisfaction of having won four Ballon d’Ors and three Golden Boots. All during my time at 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 nine 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 badge and the Santiago Bernabéu will continue to always feel as my home wherever I am.

“Thanks to all and, of course, as I said that first time in our stadium nine years ago: Hala Madrid!”

No we’re not crying, YOU’RE crying.