Florentino Perez honors Nacho Fernandez in a heartfelt farewell ceremony.
Real Madrid held a farewell ceremony for Nacho Fernandez, who left the club at the end of last month to join Al-Qadsiah (Saudi Arabia). The event was postponed due to Nacho’s participation in the Spanish national team at EURO 2024, but it was worth waiting for the day to pay tribute to one of the club’s best servants.
Real Madrid President Florentino Perez and Nacho Fernandez
According to Relevo, President Florentino Perez led the tribute to Nacho, who was supported by his family at the ceremony, as well as several former teammates, including Lucas Vazquez, Brahim Diaz and Andriy Lunin.
“Dear Nacho, on behalf of myself and all Madridistas, I want to tell you that we are proud to have believed in you. Your career, your values and your qualifications give you the right to choose your future. You have been and will be an example of self-improvement. We thank you for giving everything for this badge.”
Nacho himself gave an emotional speech, reflecting on his 24 years at Real Madrid. “It was a difficult day. I could spend hours recounting experiences, anecdotes… but I prefer to be grateful for what you gave me. It was more than I could ever repay. Above all, you taught me to be determined. I can proudly say that this badge means everything to me. I have been on the same journey for 24 years. It was not about leaving home, it was about going to my other home. To be with my other family.
“Imagine what it means to take one step forward every season and end the journey as captain lifting a 15th Champions League title.
“I say goodbye with a sense of security, having defended the shield with all my heart and soul. It is the best ending for me. I feel like the happiest homegrown player ever.”
Nacho has been a great service to Real Madrid and, as things stand, he will be left on Carlo Ancelotti’s bench next season. He has a replacement at the moment and has no plans to replace him following the successful signing of Leny Yoro.