Cristiano Ronaldo received an additional bonus of millions just days before telling his Manchester United team that he wanted to leave and not accompany his teammates who are training in Thailand.
Informed sources in Man United revealed that he had won a large amount - not disclosed, but in millions of euros - as soon as the second year of his contract began at the end of last June.
The surprise bonus was part of the deal he agreed to return to Old Trafford from Juventus last summer.
An insider at Old Trafford said that "all contracts are renewed at the beginning of this month (July), but the news of Ronaldo's desire to leave came immediately after receiving the bonus amount."
Ronaldo, 37, agreed to a 50% reduction in his wages, as his salary and bonuses amounted to more than one million euros in Italy.
But the "Manu" paid annual bonuses to all players.
Insiders stress that this is not an explicit requirement of loyalty, as it includes image rights and various payments, including the number of goals scored per season.
United had previously agreed to similar annual departure payments to Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez, which were part of the overall costs of the deal.
"Ronaldo did nothing wrong, but there are those who suggested that the timing of all this may not be a coincidence, and Ronaldo could have revealed his desire to leave weeks ago," the source said.
Ronaldo, who has one year left on his contract with United, scored 24 goals in 38 games in all competitions last season.
But the "Red Devils" team was satisfied with sixth place in the English Premier League table and failed to win any title for the fifth consecutive season.