Real Madrid captain Nacho Fernandez has turned down a chance to move to Major League Soccer (MLS) in favor of reuniting with former teammate Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, reported by GOAL. This move marks the end of Nacho's long and illustrious career at Real Madrid, where he has been a key player for over two decades.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Nacho, whose contract with Real Madrid expires later this month, is in advanced negotiations to join Al-Ittihad. Nacho has been a stalwart at Real Madrid since joining their youth academy at the age of 10. Over the years, he has become a crucial figure in the squad, known for his versatility and leadership both on and off the field.

Despite Real Madrid's efforts to keep him, including offering a new contract, Nacho has decided to embark on a new adventure in Saudi Arabia. This decision aligns with his desire for a fresh challenge and the appeal of reuniting with Karim Benzema, who recently moved to Al-Ittihad.

Offers for Nacho Fernandez

Several clubs showed interest in Nacho, including Villarreal, Inter Milan, and various MLS teams. However, Nacho made it clear that if he left Real Madrid, he would not join another European team. His decision to move to Al-Ittihad highlights his readiness for a new experience outside Europe.

Since making his senior debut under Jose Mourinho in 2011, Nacho has played 363 games for Real Madrid, scoring 16 goals and providing 10 assists. His contributions have been vital in numerous competitions, showcasing his adaptability in various defensive roles.

Nacho's time at Real Madrid has been filled with success. He has won 26 major titles, including six Champions League trophies and four La Liga championships. This remarkable achievement places him ahead of other club legends like Marcelo and Benzema, who have each won 25 titles with the club.

Leadership at Real Madrid

Nacho's versatility has been one of his standout qualities. Capable of playing across the defense, he has often been the go-to player in times of injury crises or tactical adjustments. His leadership on and off the pitch has also been invaluable, often serving as a mentor to younger players and a reliable presence for the team.

Nacho's departure will leave a significant gap in Real Madrid's defensive lineup. The club will need to address this void to maintain their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. The potential signing of young talent Leny Yoro is seen as a strategic move to bolster their defense and ensure continued success.

Real Madrid is known for its strategic approach to transfers and squad building. The pursuit of Leny Yoro and other potential signings will be crucial in maintaining the depth and quality of their defense. With an eye on the future, these moves aim to balance the immediate need to replace seasoned players like Nacho with long-term development and success.

Nacho's decision to join Al-Ittihad marks the end of an era at Real Madrid. His contributions over the years have been immense, and he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, versatility, and leadership. As he embarks on a new adventure in Saudi Arabia, Real Madrid will look to the future, aiming to build on their success and continue their tradition of excellence.

Nacho's move to Al-Ittihad is a testament to his desire for new challenges and experiences. It also underscores the global appeal of the Saudi Pro League, which continues to attract top talents from around the world. For Real Madrid, the focus will now be on strategic recruitment and maintaining their status as one of the world's top football clubs.