Real Madrid utility man Nacho will soon complete a reunion with former captain Karim Benzema at Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Nacho is the subject of interest from Al-Ittihad. The Saudi Pro League giants are keen on signing a centre-back in the summer transfer window. And they have advanced talks to sign the Real Madrid utility man, who will reunite with former captain Karim Benzema in Jeddah.
Nacho and his journey as a reliable backup
Nacho has been a dependable performer for Real Madrid without ever being an undisputed first-choice starter. The 34-year-old spent his formative years with Los Blancos before making his first-team debut nearly a decade and a half ago. Since then, he has provided backup for every defensive position.
The Spaniard became Real Madrid captain ahead of the 2023/24 season after Karim Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in a surprising move. And the veteran utility man enjoyed regular game time this term due to several long-term fitness issues in the defensive department. He amassed over 3,000 minutes of game time across 45 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with one assist.
However, Nacho’s long-term future at Real Madrid has been uncertain for months due to his contract situation. The Spanish international has entered the final month of his contract, with talks breaking down in recent weeks. The Real Madrid captain’s next destination will be the Saudi Pro League.
New adventure beckons
Widespread reports in the last few weeks suggested Nacho wanted to join an MLS club after leaving Real Madrid. The 34-year-old utility man was not interested in moving to another European club despite his links with Manchester United as he did not want to face Real Madrid again.
However, the links with Al-Ittihad have emerged out of nowhere, with talks quickly advancing between the two parties. The Spaniard is on the verge of completing the move to the Saudi Pro League, and he will reunite with former Real Madrid captain Karim Benzema in Jeddah.
Nacho’s impending departure in the summer transfer window means Real Madrid will pick a new club captain for a third successive season. It will be interesting to see who replaces the Spanish utility man as the new Real Madrid skipper after he joins Al-Ittihad.
