Florentino Perez pays tribute to Nacho Fernandez during farewell ceremony – “You have been an example” | OneFootball

On Wednesday, Real Madrid hosted the farewell ceremony of Nacho Fernandez, who left the club at the end of last month to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Qadsiah. The 34-year-old’s involvement with Spain at Euro 2024 meant that the event had been on hold, but it was worth the wait to pay tribute to one of the club’s finest servants.

As per Relevo, Florentino Perez led the tributes to Nacho, who was supported at the ceremony by his family, as well as several former teammates, including Lucas Vazquez, Brahim Diaz and Andriy Lunin.

“Dear Nacho, I want to tell you on behalf of myself and all Madridistas that we are proud to have counted on you. Your career, your values and your degrees 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 the badge.”

Nacho gave an emotional speech himself, during which he talked about his 24-year spell at Real Madrid.

“It’s a difficult day. I could spend hours telling experiences, anecdotes… but I prefer to be grateful for what you have given me. It’s been more than I can give back. Above all, you have taught me to live life with determination. I can proudly say that this badge is everything to me. I’ve been making the same journey for 24 years. It wasn’t about leaving the house, it was coming to my other house. To be with my other family.

“Imagine what it has meant to go up a step each season, and finish the journey as the captain lifting the fifteenth Champions League.

“I say goodbye with the peace of mind of having defended the shield with all my energy and my heart. It’s the most beautiful ending for me. I have felt like the happiest homegrown player ever.”

Nacho was a fantastic servant for Real Madrid, and as things stand, he will be missed significantly in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the upcoming season. As of right now, he has not been replaced, and there are currently no plans to sign a replacement, following the failed operation to sign Leny Yoro.