José Ignacio Fernández Iglesias, popularly known as Nacho, says he has nothing left to win at Real Madrid.
Nacho, who captained Madrid to the Champions League and LaLiga double last season, will join newly-promoted Al Qadsiah on a two-year contract as a free agent after Euro 2024.
Nacho underwent a medical in Germany while on international duty with Spain ahead of his move to Saudi Arabia.
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Despite being in advanced talks with Saudi giants Al Ittihad, the veteran centre-back opted to sign for Al Qadsiah.
“The decision of leaving Real Madrid is the toughest of my life,” Nacho was quoted on football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. “I told the club many months ago, I had doubts then… but I’m happy for what we did, I’ve nothing left to win with Real Madrid.”
“Until a few days ago, I hadn’t signed for my new club and Madrid told me they would be there if I changed my mind,” he said on ESPN. “I don’t need a send off like [Toni] Kroos had to realise how much I’m loved.
“I always had it clear that if I didn’t finish my career at Madrid, I wouldn’t want to play against them. I want to experience something new, something different. My life is going to be turned upside down but that’s what I want. I’m very happy.”
The 34-year-old, who joined Madrid as a 10-year-old, has won a joint-club record 26 trophies in his 12 seasons with the first team. His trophy haul includes six Champions League titles.
Nacho’s coach at Al Qadsiah will be fellow Spaniard Michel, who guided the Khobar-based outfit to finish top of the first division league in his debut season at the club.
