Legendary Spanish footballer and Real Madrid captain Nacho Hernandez has asked to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season, MySportDab reports.
The 34-year-old has spent his entire career with the Los Blancos and was made the team captain in the 2022/23 season following the departure of another club legend Marcelo.
The prolific defender has been one of the longest-serving Real Madrid players, having joined the club through the Academy before rising through the ranks.
The five-time Champions League winner broke into Real Madrid’s first team in 2011 after eight years in the club’s Academy and two years with the reserve team.
He made 105 appearances with the reserve team and was known for his spotless and balanced defensive skills on the center-back role.
Through the thick and thins of his Real Madrid career, Nacho rarely misses games with the Los Blancos save injuries.
He has been integral to Real Madrid Carlo Ancelotti’s squad and has been instrumental to the club’s push for a double of LaLiga and Champions League trophy this season.
According to reports, Nacho, who has signed multiple contract extensions with the Los Blancos throughout his career, was bent on leaving the club this time.
He was reportedly offered the option for another extension but turned it down, insisting on taking up a new challenge as he nears the end of his heroic career.
Marca reports he has told the club he will leave at the end of the season – a decision that will wrap up a largely successful 13-year career with the LaLiga giants.
He has won the Champions League, LaLiga, Copa Del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup with the club.
Real Madrid are reportedly set to scour the market to sign a young defender to replace the exit-bound legendary footballer.
