Reinier: To be at Real Madrid is to be at the top of football Real Madrid Spoke to MARCA

At the age of just 18, Reinier Jesus has already reached the top of world football, in his own words.

The Brazilian midfielder completed his move from Flamengo to Real Madrid on Monday, while is currently playing for Brazil's under-23s at the CONMEBOL pre-Olympic tournament.

Reinier sat down with MARCA for an exclusive interview.

Do you feel vertigo now that you're officially a Real Madrid player?

I don't know if it's vertigo, but it's true that to be at Real Madrid is to be at the top of football.

When did you first find out that Real Madrid were interested in you?

Well, not long ago - here in the Brazil camp. My dad and my agent told me something. I really couldn't believe it!

Where does your passion for Real Madrid come from?

Real Madrid are the greatest. When I was younger, I watched Real Madrid matches and the Galacticos with my dad. I was in love with Real Madrid and I've loved them ever since. The four Champions Leagues that they won in the last few years made my happy and the pride is difficult to explain.

Who are you most looking forward to meeting at Real Madrid?

Everyone! Because they're impressive coaches and players. Knowing that I'm going to be able to meet Raul [Gonzalez] and [Zinedine] Zidane is incredible. They're two legends of football and of Real Madrid.

Which players do you identify with or feel attracted to in your memories of football?

Zidane and Kaka were always my idols for how they played in midfield, with elegance and audacity. But I've watched so many good players at Real Madrid... I don't know where to start. It's not easy.

Humility is constant among the great Brazilian players. You also come from a difficult background.

My family has had to make sacrifices to achieve many things. I feel proud of the effort and dedication of those around me. That's why I'm never going to lose the perspective of reality. To grow, you have to suffer.

Because your family had to practically split up...

Yes, I had to leave Brasilia when I was 11 and my mother and sister stayed until my situation in Rio de Janeiro became clearer and it was clear that my future was going to be football.

You're a player that we label as 'fine' and 'a great player.' Who, for you, are the 'fine' and 'great' players at Real Madrid currently?

[Karim] Benzema and [Eden] Hazard are pure art! My goodness, how they play! There are others.

What do you think about your compatriots in the first team?

They're fabulous. Marcelo and Casemiro are renowned maestros already. Their careers and their trophies are an example for young players. As for Vinicius [Junior], Rodrygo [Goes] and [Eder] Militao, I'm convinced that Real Madrid have signed some top players.