Captain Nacho has bid farewell to Real Madrid after a distinguished 23-year tenure, during which he amassed an impressive 26 trophies, including six UEFA Champions League titles.
The 34-year-old Spanish defender, who joined Madrid’s youth academy at the age of 10, leaves behind a legacy marked by 364 appearances since his senior debut in 2012. His final game was a memorable 2-0 victory in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund earlier this month, making him one of just five players to achieve six European Cup triumphs with the club.
Currently with the Spain squad at Euro 2024, Nacho expressed his decision to seek a new experience with his family, announcing, “It has been months of reflection, indecision and doubts, but I come to tell you that I need to live one last and different experience with my family, and this is the perfect time.” He leaves Madrid having earned 26 international caps.
In addition to his Champions League success, Nacho secured four La Liga titles, two Spanish Cups, five Club World Cups, four European Super Cups, and five Spanish Super Cups during his tenure with the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez paid tribute to Nacho, stating, “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.”
Nacho is set to continue his career with Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah, marking a new chapter after his long-standing commitment to Real Madrid.
