Captain Nacho leaves after 23 years at Real Madrid

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Captain Nacho has departed Real Madrid after an illustrious career in which he won 26 trophies, including six European Cups.

The 34-year-old Spain defender joined Madrid’s youth academy at the age of 10 and made 364 appearances since his senior debut in 2012.

His final appearance for Real Madrid was the 2-0 Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund earlier this month, making him one of only five players to win six European Cups with the club.

Currently with the Spain squad at Euro 2024, Nacho is expected to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah.

“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,” said Nacho, who has 26 international caps.

Nacho also won four La Liga titles, two Spanish Cups, five Club World Cups, four European Super Cups and five Spanish Super Cups with his only senior club.

“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,” said Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.