In a move that marks the end of an era, Nacho Fernández, the former Real Madrid captain, has signed a two-year deal with Saudi Arabian outfit Al Qadsiah.
The 34-year-old defender, who spent over two decades at Madrid, made the announcement while away with the Spanish national team at Euro 2024.
Nacho’s decision to leave Madrid was not taken lightly, but he felt it was time for a new challenge. “I didn’t want to play against Madrid, it was never an option,” he revealed at a press conference. “I wanted to leave on a high note, and what a way to do it – winning the Champions League for the sixth time.”
The veteran defender, who made 364 appearances for Madrid and won 26 trophies, including six Champions League titles, is looking forward to a new chapter in his career. “It’s a new experience, a new challenge, and I’m excited to see what the future holds,” he said.
Nacho’s focus now shifts to Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, where they face Georgia in the round of 16 on Sunday. “We’re concentrated on Georgia, and we want to keep our momentum going,” he said. “This move doesn’t affect my ability to play or the team’s focus. We’re all about winning.”
As Nacho begins his new journey in Saudi Arabia, he reflects on his time at Madrid with fond memories. “I gave everything to Madrid, and I want to be remembered as a player who always gave his all.” With his European career behind him, Nacho is ready to take on the Middle East and make his mark in Saudi Arabia.