Champions League-winning defender reveals he “cried a lot” after deciding to leave Real Madrid | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid captain Nacho decided not to renew his contract with the club he has called home for his entire career. Instead, the veteran defender is embarking on a new chapter in Saudi Arabia.

This decision marks the end of an era for Nacho, who spent over two decades with Los Blancos, having joined their academy at a young age and rising through the ranks to become a first-team regular and eventual captain.

His departure has stirred emotions, both for him personally and for the fans who have admired his dedication and loyalty to the club.

In a recent interview with El Chiringuito TV, Nacho opened up about his feelings and experiences leading up to his departure from Real Madrid.

The interview, which has generated significant buzz, offers a glimpse into the heart and mind of a player who has lived and breathed Real Madrid for most of his life.

Not an easy decision to make

Nacho’s decision to leave was far from easy, and he shared the emotional journey he underwent in the months leading up to his final match in the iconic white jersey.

Nacho said he cried a lot after deciding to leave Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

At 34 years old, Nacho admitted that deciding to leave Real Madrid was incredibly tough. The weight of the decision was evident in his words, as he recounted the emotional toll it took on him.

He confessed that he had shed tears over his choice, highlighting just how deeply he was affected.

“I have cried a lot for what I usually cry, which is not much,” said the former Madrid captain.

One particularly poignant moment he described was during the trophy parade at Cibeles, a traditional celebration spot for Madrid’s victories.

“They have been hard months, the team was playing a lot of things. There were a lot of emotions to go to Cibeles too. I had a mixture in my body that was like an explosive bomb,” he added.

Every match Nacho played in his final season carried a special significance. He approached each game with the awareness that it might be his last in a Real Madrid shirt. This mindset added an extra layer of intensity and appreciation to his performances.

“I was looking forward to the end of the season also a little bit for that reason, but it is true that it has made me live it all with even more joy, with more emotion. Every game I’ve played I’ve lived with a special feeling,” he added.