A former Real Madrid wonderkid likened to Lamine Yamal has left the Santiago Bernabeu to embark on a new chapter.
Carlo Ancelotti bolstered his attack with the highly-anticipated summer arrivals of Endrick and Kylian Mbappe.
Having won La Liga and the UEFA Champions League last season, Los Blancos are aiming to dominate world football once again.
Madrid's stockpiling of young talent is starting to impact academy graduates attempting to break into the first team.
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One exciting midfielder has decided to seek opportunities elsewhere recently and some are suggesting he may now follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Per transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Paulo Iago has decided to leave the club and join for Sporting Lisbon.
The 17-year-old midfielder impressed watchers in his performances for Los Blancos' academy sides and has already been capped for Spain's Under-17's.
"I am very happy to sign with Sporting CP because it is a club that has already produced great players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo,” Iago said.
"The club invests a lot in training and young people, that motivates me.”
Iago caused some level of controversy after refusing to sign a new deal with Real Madrid.
Likened to Barcelona teenager Yamal given his play style, Iago has previously expressed his discontent regarding opportunities to progress at Real.
Their preferred option was that Iago stay and renew, but given his recent contract refusal, it was agreed that an exit would be sought so that he would not be a free agent in 2025.
Given prominent footballing agent Jorge Mendes already represents Iago, it's no surprise many expect his career trajectory to follow that of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner made a name for himself with the Portuguese giants and it is hoped Iago can be nurtured into a future star himself.
A move to Manchester United developed back in 2003 before Ronaldo spent six seasons under the guidance of legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
Ronaldo later moved to Real Madrid and become one of the greatest footballing stars of the modern era.
Topics: Real Madrid, Sporting Lisbon, Sporting CP, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lamine Yamal
Matthew Holt