Spanish side pay tribute to ‘best player in the world’

League successes, three Fifa Club World Cups, two La Liga titles and two Copa del Rey crowns.

A club statement said: “Real Madrid CF communicates that, in response to the will and request expressed by the player Cristiano Ronaldo, it has agreed to transfer him to Juventus FC.

“Today, Real Madrid wants to express its gratitude to a player who has proved to be the best in the world and who has marked one of the brightest times in the history of our club and world football.

“Beyond the conquered titles,thetrophiesachieved and the triumphs achieved on the playing fields during these nine years, Cristiano Ronaldo has been an example of dedication, work, responsibility, talent and improvement.

“For Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo will always be one of its great symbols and a unique reference for the next generations.”

Ronaldo, who joined the club from Manchester United for a then worldrecord fee of £80m in 2009, also paid tribute to Madrid.

He said in his letter: “Real Madrid has conquered my heart, and that of my family, and that is why more than ever I want to say thank you. I’m leaving, but this shirt, this badge and the Santiago Bernabeu will continue to always feel as my own wherever I am.”

● Manchester City have signed Riyad Mahrez from Leicester City for a clubrecord £60 million.

The Premier League champions confirmed last night that the Algeria midfielder has signed a fiveyear contract.