June 26 – Real Madrid skipper Nacho has left the club after winning 26 trophies including six European Cups, his final appearance being the Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
The Spain defender, 34, joined Madrid’s youth academy aged 10 and made 364 appearances following his senior debut in 2012.
“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 and is now expected to join the throng of ageing stars moving to the Saudi Pro League.
He 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.
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