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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Nacho set to leave Real Madrid</li><li>Not keen on heading to the United States</li><li>Will sign a contract with Saudi side Al-Ittihad</li></ul>

Real Madrid captain Nacho to snub MLS move in favour of reunion with Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad

According to<a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1801331979616665672" target="_blank"> Fabrizio Romano, </a>the veteran defender, whose contract with Real Madrid expires later this month, is in advanced talks to join the Saudi Pro League side. Nacho, a stalwart at Real Madrid since joining the club’s youth system at the age of 10, has spent his entire career with the Spanish giants. Over the years, he has become a crucial figure in the squad, earning respect for his versatility and leadership. However, his tenure at Santiago Bernabeu seems to be drawing to a close as he eyes a new challenge in Saudi Arabia.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Despite being informed about his impending departure, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/carlo-ancelotti-real-madrid-nacho-contract-nears-expiration/bltb575c3750519f004" target="_blank">Real Madrid had offered Nacho a new contract</a>, hoping to retain his services. However, the prospect of joining Benzema at Al-Ittihad and embarking on a new adventure seems to have swayed the seasoned defender. Several other clubs, including Villarreal, Inter, and <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/lionel-messi-link-up-nacho-future-admission-teases-mls-transfer-inter-miami-defender-real-madrid/blt805bbee009a58e88" target="_blank">various MLS teams</a>, had shown interest in Nacho, but he remained firm that if he left Real Madrid, he would not join any other European outfit.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Since making his senior debut under Jose Mourinho in 2011, Nacho has played 363 games, scored 16 goals, and provided 10 assists. His trophy cabinet is equally impressive, boasting 26 major titles, including six Champions League trophies and four La Liga championships. This achievement places him ahead of other club legends like Marcelo and Benzema, who have 25 titles each with Madrid.

DID YOU KNOW?

As Nacho prepares to bid farewell to the club that has been his home for over two decades, Real Madrid will need to address the gap left in their defensive lineup. The potential<a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/man-utd-transfer-blow-lille-lenny-yoro-real-madrid/blt7985c40c2a663ab0" target="_blank"> signing of Leny Yoro</a> is seen as a strategic move to bolster their defence and ensure continued success on both domestic and European fronts.

WHAT NEXT?

Real Madrid captain Nacho to snub MLS move in favour of reunion with Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad | Goal.com

Real Madrid captain Nacho has reportedly snubbed an opportunity to move to MLS in favour of a reunion with Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad.