Real Madrid’s Captain Nacho Fernandez Passes on MLS Offers, Agrees to Saudi Arabia Move

Nacho Fernandez, centre-back of Spain and Real Madrid, during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Spain and Croatia in June 2024
Nacho Fernandez, centre-back of Spain and Real Madrid, during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Spain and Croatia in June 2024. Photo by Jose Breton/NurPhoto/Shutterstock (14541175fp)

Real Madrid’s defender Nacho Fernandez passed on an opportunity to play in MLS and instead opted for a move to Saudi Arabia, according to reputable soccer insider Fabrizio Romano.

Nacho, who served as captain for Real Madrid this season, will see his contract expire with the La Liga giants at the end of this month. He was previously linked with a move to the United States as a free agent, with a number of MLS clubs being interested in his services.

But in recent weeks, Nacho engaged in serious talks with Saudi Pro League’s Al Ittihad before receiving an offer from newly-promoted Al Qadsiah.

Romano reports that Nacho has now accepted a two-year contract from Al Qadsiah and already passed his medical. He will officially sign the deal after all the documents are reviewed and approved.

Nacho, who plays center-back and full-back, spent his entire professional career with Real Madrid. He made his debut for the first team in 2011 and has since made 364 appearances in all competitions.

During his time with Los Blancos, Nacho won an impressive 26 trophies, which is tied for most by any Real player in history. This includes the La Liga title and UEFA Champions League in 2023-24.

I am a reality TV junkie. My dream since I was a kid was to be on Big Brother, but until then you can catch me binge-watching episodes each summer.