Today marked an emotional farewell for Nacho Fernandez, one of Real Madrid’s most decorated players, as he bid adieu to his boyhood club. The ceremony, held on Wednesday afternoon at Real Madrid City, was a poignant tribute to Nacho’s illustrious career. Attended by his family members, friends, and Real Madrid legends such as Jose Pirri, Raul Gonzalez, Santiago Solari, and Alvaro Arbeloa, the event was a testament to Nacho’s impact on the club. Also present were Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti and several of Nacho’s teammates, including Luka Modric, Andriy Lunin, Dani Ceballos, Lucas Vazquez, Brahim Diaz, Fran Garcia, and Dani Ceballos.
READ: Nacho’s speech from today’s ceremony
Florentino Perez, President of Real Madrid, delivered a heartfelt speech honoring Nacho’s contributions. His words resonated deeply with everyone present, capturing the essence of Nacho’s remarkable journey and legacy.
“Today is a particularly emotional day for us madridistas because one of the great players who has given everything to his boyhood club, you have decided to bring an exemplary spell to an end, leaving as a true Real Madrid legend,” Perez began. “Dear Nacho, the first thing I’d like to say to you, myself and on behalf of all madridismo, is that we’re enormously proud to have had you here for these 23 years. The madridistas thank you, because you have put your heart and soul into defending this crest. I want you to know how proud we feel of one of the most legendary academy graduates Real Madrid has ever had.”
Florentino Perez: “Today it’s a sad day for all Madridistas, because we’re saying goodbye to a player who has given his all to the club. Dear Nacho, in the name of all Madrisistas, we’d like to say we are very proud of all that you achieved. You joined the club at 10 years old,… pic.twitter.com/TytpAzp99K
— Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) July 24, 2024
Perez recounted Nacho’s early days, highlighting his progression through the ranks.
“You arrived at Real Madrid as a boy. It was 2001 and you were just 10 years old. Since then, you have played at every level of the Real Madrid academy and played a key role in one of the most significant winning periods in our history. It was hard to imagine that that young boy would go on to become one of the very few players in football history capable of matching a record held by one of our most mythical stars: Paco Gento and his 6 European Cups.
“And that’s not all. That boy would also go on to lift the most trophies in Real Madrid history: 12 seasons in the first team, 26 titles. Throughout your time at Real Madrid, you have been an example of these values. You have always shown conduct and an attitude that those of us fortunate enough to see you grow up here at Real Madrid City, which has been your home for the majority of your life, will never forget.”
Perez also touched on the personal aspect of Nacho’s journey, mentioning his family.
“You grew up here alongside your brother Alex. For every kid that comes through these doors, and for all those who have or will have that same dream, you have been and will continue to be an example of perseverance, refusing to ever give in despite adversity or the difficult times you’ve had.
“All of us today are so proud of that boy, who grew into the great captain who lifted the fifteenth European Cup at Wembley, just a couple of months ago. You will have our affection and admiration, always. You know, as your family does, that this is and will always be your home.”
As Nacho departs, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of Real Madrid players.
