Al Qadsiah have officially announced the signing of Spain international Nacho on a free transfer, with the experienced centre-back recently confirming his departure from Real Madrid.
The 34-year-old proved to be an important player for Los Blancos during the 2023-24 campaign, featuring on 46 occasions in all competitions, and he had been expected to pen a new one-year contract at Bernabeu.
However, it was confirmed earlier this week that Nacho would be leaving on a free transfer.
The defender, who is currently with the Spain squad at Euro 2024, had been heavily linked with a switch to the MLS.
Nacho's arrival in the Saudi Pro League has now been confirmed, though, with Al Qadsiah, who gained promotion to the top flight from the second tier last season, winning the race for his signature.
New experience, Let's go @Alqadsiah 🙌💪 pic.twitter.com/zvOdA1RsO6
— Nacho Fernández (@nachofi1990) June 27, 2024
Al Qadsiah announce Nacho arrival
Nacho has penned a two-year contract with the Saudi outfit, having undergone a medical in Germany while on international duty with Spain, who face Georgia in the last-16 stage of Euro 2024 on Sunday.
"I'm so grateful to Real Madrid," the defender told reporters at a Spain pass conference on Thursday.
"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. I don't need a send off like [Toni] Kroos had to realise how much I'm loved.
"I always had 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."
© Reuters
Nacho becomes latest high-profile signing for Saudi Arabia
"I could have stayed one more year but there's nothing left to win with this jersey. It doesn't mean I'm lacking ambition. I thought it was the right time. I am calm and confident with the decision I've taken."
Al-Ittihad are believed to have been firmly in the race for the defender's signature, but he has decided to make the switch to Al Qadsiah to play under Spanish head coach Michel, who also turned out for Real Madrid during his playing career.
Nacho has left Real Madrid having made 364 appearances for the Spanish giants in all competitions, scoring 16 goals and registering 10 assists in the process.
The centre-back's strong form for Carlo Ancelotti's side last term saw him brought back into the Spain squad, and he played the full 90 minutes of La Roja's Euro 2024 opener against Croatia on June 15.
Matt Law
