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Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal was visibly moved to tears as he bid farewell to Los Blancos following Saturday's season finale.
Apart from a single season at Bayer Leverkusen, Carvajal has devoted his entire career to Real Madrid, rising through the youth academy before returning in the summer of 2013 to cement his place as a regular starter at the Bernabéu.
He contributed an assist in Saturday's 4–2 victory over Athletic Club—his 451st appearance for Madrid across all competitions—after which Carvajal delivered a heartfelt farewell to the club.
When asked by RMTV what Madrid meant to him, Carvajal said: "It's not just the club of my life — it is my life. I was born a Real Madrid supporter, I've been here for 23 years, I've played in every division, I've won everything there is to win, I've even served as captain ... I couldn't ask for anything more. I'm leaving feeling very happy and fulfilled.
"If someone had told me as a boy that I'd have this kind of career, I never would have believed it. It's been wonderful, spectacular from the very first day to the last. Victories, tough moments that helped me grow, sharing a locker room with incredible people ... It's the greatest club in the world. I always tried to treat everyone with kindness, even when I was frustrated after losing the ball or misplacing a pass. I hope everyone walks away with fond memories of Dani Carvajal. We'll cross paths again in the future.
"It's very hard to put into words. The emotions hit you without warning. Yesterday, seeing the training ground, and today seeing the banner they made for me, the standing ovations ... How could I not be emotional? I'm closing a magnificent chapter, an unforgettable career. I have nothing but gratitude for the club and the supporters. Thank you — I've enjoyed every moment like a child, from the first day to the last, and I hope the feeling is shared. I hope to return to what is truly my home, in a different capacity, but always contributing."
Carvajal Dishes Out Thanks After Final Appearance
Carvajal then stepped onto the Bernabéu pitch for the last time as a player, eager to express his gratitude to all those who had helped him reach such an extraordinary milestone.
"This isn't an easy moment for me to speak because I'm overwhelmed with emotion by this incredible send-off," he said into the microphone.
"First, I want to thank our president, Don Florentino [Pérez]. He's the one who brought me back from Germany, and together we've won many Champions Leagues, but if I have to single out one thing, it's that less than 24 hours after my knee injury, he didn't hesitate to extend my contract.
"I also want to thank my teammates. These haven't been two easy seasons, but I'm confident we'll win again. This is Real Madrid, and we must rise once more, as our history demands. I can't help but think back on the golden era we've lived through. We're drawing a remarkable chapter to a close: four Champions Leagues in five years, that 10th title, three consecutive, Cristiano [Ronaldo], [Sergio] Ramos, [Carlo] Ancelotti, [Zinedine] Zidane ... Countless names who elevated this badge to new heights. They made us great and took us to the very pinnacle.
"I want to keep thanking my parents and my brother for the enormous sacrifices they made when I was young. You have always been by my side — thank you. And to my wife and children ... I've endured two very difficult years, the painful side of this sport, and you filled my days with light. I love you all dearly.
"Finally, thank you all — you fans are truly wonderful. From the first day to the last, you lifted me up. Witnessing this farewell makes me incredibly proud to call myself a Madridista.
"Thank you for the Madridista spirit, for standing by me in the good times and the bad. Some careers are defined by trophies, and all I ask is that you remember me with pride and with the knowledge that I gave absolutely everything for this shirt. Yesterday, today, and always, Hala Madrid!"
Where Will Dani Carvajal Go Next?
While Carvajal alluded to a possible future role with Madrid down the road, there is no indication that he intends to hang up his boots this summer.
Despite being in the latter stages of his career, there will still be no shortage of interested clubs for Carvajal, though how many could realistically persuade the right back to sign is another matter entirely. He has previously stated his intention to leave Europe once his chapter with Madrid concludes.
Consequently, competitions such as Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League have surfaced as potential destinations for Carvajal, who also has admirers in Qatar.