Robinho is a Brazilian football player who has played for several top clubs in Europe, including Real Madrid. His time at the Spanish giant was marked by both success and controversy, and his departure from the club was shrouded in mystery and speculation. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Robinho’s departure from Real Madrid.
Early Days at Real Madrid
Robinho joined Real Madrid in 2005 from Santos, one of the top clubs in Brazil. He was highly rated by then-manager Vanderlei Luxemburgo, who had coached him at Santos. Robinho quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe, with his quick feet and dribbling skills mesmerizing fans and defenders alike.
Success on the Pitch
During his first season at Real Madrid, Robinho helped the club win La Liga for the first time in four years. He scored 14 goals in all competitions and formed a deadly attacking partnership with Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy. The following season, he continued to impress, scoring 11 goals as Real Madrid finished second in La Liga.
The Controversy
Despite his success on the pitch, Robinho’s time at Real Madrid was not without controversy. In October 2006, he was accused of rape by a woman in a nightclub in Leeds, England.
Robinho denied the allegations but was eventually found guilty by a court in Italy and sentenced to nine years in prison. He appealed the verdict and was later acquitted due to lack of evidence.
The rape allegations had a significant impact on Robinho’s career at Real Madrid. He became a Target for opposing fans and endured chants and insults whenever he played away from home. Some of his teammates also distanced themselves from him due to the negative publicity surrounding him.
The Departure
In August 2008, Robinho shocked Real Madrid fans by announcing that he wanted to leave the club. He had reportedly fallen out with then-manager Bernd Schuster and was unhappy with his role in the team. Many fans were disappointed to see him go, as they believed he still had a lot to offer the club.
Robinho’s departure from Real Madrid was also linked to financial reasons. He was one of the highest-paid players at the club, and his departure freed up space on the wage bill for other signings. He eventually joined Manchester City for a fee of €43 million, which was a record transfer fee for a British club at the time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Robinho’s departure from Real Madrid was due to a combination of factors. His success on the pitch was overshadowed by controversy off it, and his relationship with some of his teammates and managers became strained as a result.
Financial considerations also played a role in his departure, as Real Madrid looked to balance their books and make room for new signings. Despite the acrimony surrounding his exit, Robinho remains one of the most talented players to have ever worn the famous white shirt of Real Madrid.