MADRID: Nacho Fernandez bid an emotional farewell to Real Madrid on Tuesday after a trophy-laden 23-year spell at the La Liga club.
The Spain international, who led the team to a Champions League and La Liga double last season, left the club at the end of his contract. He helped Spain lift the Euro 2024 trophy earlier this month.
The 34-year-old defender announced earlier this month that he will play for Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah.
At a private ceremony closed to fans and media at the clubhouse and attended by his team-mates, former players and Madrid president Florentino Perez, a tearful Nacho said: “It’s the most beautiful ending I could have imagined. I leave as captain and had the honor to lift 15. European Cup.
“I’m leaving because I wanted another experience in my career and to face new challenges. I want to be remembered as a young player who gave his all to the club.”
“I grew up for almost 24 years in the best club in the world. Real Madrid taught me to win and lose, but above all to live. This club is everything to me. I say goodbye knowing that I gave everything for this club.”
Nacho lifted a joint club record 26 trophies, including six Champions League titles with Madrid, when he joined the club at the age of 10.
In 2012, he made his debut in the first team.
Perez presented Nacho with a gold and diamond badge and said: “We’re proud to have you for the last 23 years. You came here at the age of 10 and played on all our teams. I want you to know we feel at our best.” the pride of one of the most legendary young players of Real Madrid, I want to thank you because you gave your soul to this club, you know that it is and always will be your home.”
