A Real Madrid star has today confirmed he will be departing the club after releasing a statement just days following Los Blancos' 2021/22 UEFA Champions League glory.
Spanish midfielder Isco has announced his departure from the 14-time European champions, confirming his exit in a statement released on Monday afternoon.
"When I was in Malaga and I knew I had to go," the statement read.
"I got engaged to another team. But Real Madrid knocked on my door and Real Madrid cannot and should not be told no, although there are always exceptions. Nine years later my time at the club that has made it possible for me to fulfill all the dreams I had when I was little comes to an end.
"... Apart from fulfilling dreams, winning more titles than I had imagined, playing with the greatest, meeting incredible people. Because without a doubt I keep the good and I hope you do too!
"I want to thank my teammates, coaches, coaching staff, physios, kit men, workers at Valdebebas and Santiago Bernabeu for all the work, love and support that everyone needs and that I have never lacked.
"I also want to thank the fans who welcomed me in an incredible way from the first day and who accompany this team in every corner of the world!
"By the way, yesterday I was telling a friend that I didn't understand why they were holding the Cibeles party if number 15 is on its way, hahahaha! Goodbye and Hala Madrid."
Isco leaves the LaLiga champions after making just 17 appearances this season, with fitness issues appearing to bring to an end what was once a budding career.
The player, 30, featured a total of 353 times for the Madrid-based club, winning 19 trophies along the way.
At his best, the playmaker was an influential figure for the team but has seen his importance wane over the past three seasons, a period in which he has scored just two league goals.
