Jese reveals the secret behind Ronaldo's financial offer to keep him at Real Madrid
Jesé Rodríguez revealed a hidden and impactful side to Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo , the current captain of Saudi club Al-Nassr, during their time together at the Bernabéu. These remarks shed light on the leadership and humanitarian role the "Madeira Rocket" played behind the scenes, away from the spotlight and his decisive goals.
Ronaldo's exceptional financial offer
In an interview with the program "Los Amigos de Edu," Jesé made a startling revelation about Ronaldo's attempt to prevent him from leaving Real Madrid . The Spanish player explained that Ronaldo didn't just offer verbal advice, but also made a remarkable gesture that reflected his appreciation for young talent.
Jesé said, "When I was close to leaving, Cristiano told me, 'If it's about money, I'll give you part of my salary.'" He added, emphasizing, "He was prepared to share his salary with me so I could stay at Real Madrid. He saw in me a talent that deserved to stay and develop at the Santiago Bernabéu.".
First meeting: The humility of the great star
Jesé reminisced about 2009, when he was just 15 years old and training at the club's academy, La Fábrica. He recounted his first meeting with Ronaldo, who had recently arrived from Manchester United in a then-record transfer.
Jesé recounted the incident, saying, “I was heading to the cold water bath as part of my recovery program when I was surprised to see Cristiano emerge from the room after submerging his head. Despite his immense stardom, he greeted me with, ‘Hello, Jesé.’ I was amazed that he knew my name and showed such humility.” He added that Ronaldo later followed up with him after his promotion to the first team and encouraged him with words of motivation: “I remember you well, keep working.”.
Historical context: A talent hampered by injuries
It's worth noting that Jesé Rodríguez was considered during that period (between 2012 and 2016) to be Cristiano Ronaldo's heir apparent at Real Madrid, and one of the brightest talents in Spanish football. However, his career suffered a major setback after a horrific cruciate ligament injury in his knee during a Champions League match against Schalke 04 in 2014.
That injury was a turning point, as his physical level declined, prompting Real Madrid to sell him to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2016. Since then, Jesé has moved between several clubs such as Las Palmas, Stoke City, Real Betis, Sporting Lisbon, and Sampdoria, in a continuous search to regain his lost brilliance.
Ronaldo, the leader and inspiration
This testimony confirms what many young players who have played alongside Ronaldo, whether at Real Madrid, Juventus, or currently in the Saudi League with Al-Nassr, have been saying. The Portuguese star consistently demonstrates a keenness to guide and support up-and-coming players, both psychologically and financially, thus cementing his status as a true leader on and off the pitch, and not just as a football legend.
