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Real Madrid confirm Nacho Fernández departure before Saudi transfer
Nacho Fernández has departed Real Madrid ahead of an anticipated move to the Saudi Pro League, as confirmed by the club on Tuesday.
Despite captaining the team to a Champions League and La Liga double this season, Nacho has left upon the expiration of his contract. The 34-year-old defender, who joined Madrid at the age of 10, boasts a remarkable tally of 26 trophies with the club, including six Champions League titles. His first-team debut came in 2012.
Nacho remains part of the Spain squad, contributing to their recent 1-0 victory over Albania, securing advancement to the European 2024 knockout round.
Reports suggest Nacho is poised to join Al Qadsiah in the SPL. Initially in talks with Al Ittihad, Nacho opted for Al Qadsiah’s offer to swiftly settle his future, according to sources.
Real Madrid expressed gratitude to Nacho in a statement: “Real Madrid would like to thank and express our appreciation to Nacho, one of the club’s biggest legends. Every Real Madrid fan is extremely proud of one of the most legendary youth academy graduates in our history.”
Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, added: “Since he arrived at our youth academy as a child, Nacho has been an example to everyone and has earned the affection, recognition and admiration of everyone at Real Madrid. Real Madrid is and always will be his home.”
Nacho, in turn, acknowledged Real Madrid fans via social media: “It has been months of reflection, indecision and doubt, but today I am here to tell you that I need to have a final and different experience along with my family and this is the perfect moment. Thank you Real Madrid for understanding me.”
GRACIAS @realmadrid 🤍🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/MDBls1RyiH
— Nacho Fernández (@nachofi1990) June 25, 2024