Ahead of Spain’s Euro qualifier match against Georgia, Spanish defender and former Real Madrid captain Nacho appeared in a press conference. In the conference, Nacho explained the reasons behind his departure from Real Madrid and expressed his desire to win the Euros with Spain.
Why did you leave Real Madrid? “I wanted a new experience. I never imagined ending my Real Madrid career in this way (lifting the Champions League as captain). It was a well-thought-out but very difficult decision for me. I’ve played for Real Madrid my entire life, and I thought I could stay for another year. But playing for Real Madrid requires being at the highest level. I think my performance wasn’t at its best, I had some doubts last season, so I felt leaving now was the best decision.”
Regarding Kroos’ departure “I trust the club, and they later offered me a renewal. But when Kroos announced his departure, I knew I had to leave too. I am very grateful to Real Madrid for all these years.”
Why did you decide to go to the Saudi League?
“I was always clear that I would never want to play against Real Madrid. If I wanted to continue playing in Europe, I would have stayed. I wanted a completely different experience. Facing Real Madrid was never an option.”
Has this news impacted Spain?
“I don’t want this press conference to be about my farewell. I just wanted to get this out of the way before the Euro qualifiers begin. Regarding my goodbye to Real Madrid, I will talk to the club again. We are very focused right now, and this won’t affect us. I made the decision a few months ago. Our performance in the group stage proves that, after this press conference, we are only thinking about the next game against Georgia.”
Is Spain a favorite to win the Euros? “We are always a very strong team, and whether we are favorites or not doesn’t affect us. Playing for Spain is a source of pride for me, winning a championship with the national team would be something beautiful, and we will fight hard for it.”
How would you rate yourself? “I give myself a 10. I always knew what I wanted, and I’m often content with what I have. I’m happy with my perseverance all these years.”
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