July 25, (THEWILL) – Nacho Fernandez returned to the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, for an emotional send-off, marking the end of his 24-year association with Real Madrid. The 34-year-old defender, who left the club when his contract expired in June, was honoured for his decades of service in front of family, teammates, and club officials.
The ceremony featured a video montage highlighting Nacho’s career achievements, which visibly moved the player to tears. Addressing the gathering, Nacho struggled to contain his emotions as he stood before the 26 trophies he won during his 13 years in the first team. “This club is everything to me and to my entire family,” he said, his voice cracking. “I have been making the same journey for 24 years in a row. From my home to my other home…because my family is here.”
Nacho’s journey with Real Madrid began when he joined the youth ranks at age ten. He progressed through the academy and Castilla before becoming a valued member of the first team. Known for his versatility and reliability, Nacho made over 40 appearances in each of his final three seasons with the club. His crowning achievement came last month when he lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy as captain in his final act for Madrid.
The Spanish defender’s six Champions League titles, won between 2013/2014 and 2023/2024, equal a competition record shared with Madrid icon Paco Gento and former teammates Luka Modric and Dani Carvajal. Nacho expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, and club staff for their support throughout his career. “Thank you, Real Madrid, for making me a man with perfect values,” he said.
While Nacho’s time at Real Madrid has come to an end, he will continue his playing career with Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
