Yahoo Sports Former Real Madrid captain explains his decision to leave ‘the club of his life’
When Nacho Fernandez led Real Madrid to their historic 15th UEFA Champions League title last season, very few would have expected him to leave the club the following summer.
But in an extraordinary turn of events, Nacho decided to put an end to his long association with Real Madrid and settled for a move to Saudi Arabia.
Nacho joined Al Qadsiah on a free transfer, adding more firepower to a team that boasts the services of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Koen Casteels.
Nacho on his Real Madrid exit
In a recent interview with Saudi Pro League’s official YouTube channel, Nacho has reflected on his emotional departure from Real Madrid, admitting that it wasn’t an easy decision.
“It wasn’t an easy decision because leaving the club of my life was very difficult, but I had thought it through,” Nacho said.
A native of Madrid, Nacho was a part of the Real Madrid youth setup since 2001. His departure in the summer, therefore, ended a 23-year association with Los Blancos.
During his time at Real Madrid, Nacho appeared in 364 competitive matches, notably winning no less than six Champions League titles.
Despite his success, though, Nacho admitted he was looking for a new adventure elsewhere this summer. “I needed a radical change, I felt the need to try a new experience,” he said.
Talking about the proudest moment in his career, the former Real Madrid captain stated:
“The present. I’m very happy for everything I’ve done in the club of my life, which is Real Madrid.
“I’ve been a champion with the Spanish national team this summer, which has been important for me and now I’m in a new project where I bet everything to come.”
Since his move to Al Qadsiah, Nacho has featured in two matches for his new club, captaining the team in both matches.
Given his age and experience, there is no doubt Nacho will be leading the Al Qadsiah project in the next couple of years, as the Saudi outfit look to attract more and more talents from across the world.
