Real Madrid captain Nacho to leave club after 23 years

Real Madrid defender and captain Nacho, aged 34, is departing after a remarkable 23-year tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu, as confirmed by the LaLiga club on Tuesday.

The Spain international has achieved six Champions League triumphs with Madrid since his initiation into their youth academy in 2001, in addition to securing four LaLiga titles and two Copa del Reys.

The Spanish club released a statement declaring, "Real Madrid announces that our captain Nacho has chosen to conclude his journey as a Real Madrid player.

" Real Madrid expressed their gratitude and fondness towards Nacho, acknowledging him as one of the esteemed legends of the club.

Nacho's legacy at Real Madrid includes captaining the team to their 15th Champions League victory at Wembley, being among the five players to have clinched six European Cups in football history and holding the record for the most titles won in the club's history.

There have been speculations linking Nacho to a potential move to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Qadsiah.

Real president Florentino Perez praised Nacho, stating, "Since his early days at our youth academy, Nacho has epitomized continuous improvement for all.

He has garnered the affection, recognition, and admiration of all madridistas. Real Madrid will forever remain his home."