Real Madrid Bids Farewell to Club Legend as 'Most Beloved Player' Confirms Departure

Real Madrid have officially announced the heartfelt exit of dedicated servant Lucas Vázquez following an 18-year journey with the club.

The adaptable stalwart may not have been among the most prominent figures in the galaxy of stars at the Spanish powerhouse. However, his unwavering commitment and readiness to handle the unglamorous tasks that others might ignore helped earn him recognition as "one of our club's greatest legends" from Madrid.

"Lucas Vázquez perfectly embodies the principles of Real Madrid, making him one of the most cherished players among our supporters," club president Florentino Pérez declared in an official announcement. "Lucas Vázquez represents the dedication, persistence, modesty, and championship mentality crucial for success in this jersey. He is a player who commands the love and respect of all Real Madrid supporters. Real Madrid is and will forever remain his home."

Vázquez initially entered Madrid's academy system as a 16-year-old in 2007. Following seven years progressing through different youth levels without a single first-team appearance, the Galician wide player was sent on loan to Espanyol. Vázquez performed well enough to secure a €500,000 ($580,000) permanent move to the Catalan club on July 1, 2015. Twenty-four hours later, Rafael Benítez paid double that amount to secure his return.

Throughout his final decade at the Spanish giants, Vázquez has consistently provided moments of quiet excellence while never being guaranteed a starting position. The hardworking right winger even transformed himself into a right-back to maintain his value to the different coaches who managed the team during his tenure.

Among last season's roster, Luka Modrić was the sole other player besides Vázquez to have found the net for Real Madrid in every La Liga season since 2015. Both have now departed.

The 34-year-old claimed the Spanish championship four times and participated in five separate Champions League victories, coolly slotting home his penalty against Atlético Madrid in the successful 2016 final shootout.

Vázquez will receive an official send-off ceremony organized by Real Madrid on Thursday, July 17 at 7 a.m. ET.