Real Madrid announce departure of 'one of the club's greatest legends' who won 23 trophies at Bernabeu

Real Madrid have confirmed that the long-serving Lucas Vazquez is leaving the club, with the Spaniard's farewell ceremony set to take place on Thursday.

Vazquez joined Real Madrid's youth system in 2007 and then progressed from Real Madrid C and Real Madrid B to the first team, with his senior debut coming in 2015.

The 34-year-old spent the 2014-15 campaign on loan at Espanyol, but his professional career has otherwise been at Real Madrid, making 402 appearances, scoring 38 goals and registering 73 assists.

Vazquez has won 23 major trophies during his time at Bernabeu, including five Champions League crowns and four La Liga trophies, but his departure on a free transfer has now been confirmed.

Real Madrid confirm Vazquez exit

"Real Madrid CF announces that tomorrow, Thursday, July 17, at 1:00 p.m., an institutional tribute and farewell ceremony for our player Lucas Vazquez will take place at Real Madrid City, with the presence of our president, Florentino Perez," read a statement on the club's official website.

"Real Madrid would like to express its gratitude and affection for Lucas Vazquez, one of our club's greatest legends."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said in a statement: “Lucas Vazquez exemplarily represents the values of Real Madrid, which has made him one of the most beloved players by our fans.

"Lucas Vazquez symbolizes the hard work, perseverance, humility, and winning spirit essential to succeed in this shirt. He is a player who earns the affection and recognition of all Real Madrid fans. Real Madrid is and always will be his home.”

Vazquez: "Real Madrid will never leave me"

Vazquez said that Real Madrid 'will never leave him' in a statement on social media.

"I'm leaving Real Madrid, but Real Madrid will never leave me. Wherever I go, I’ll say with pride that I had the honor of playing for the best team in the world. Thank you for joining me on the most beautiful journey of my life," said the Spaniard.

Vazquez is the third Real Madrid player to leave on a free transfer this summer, with Luka Modric making the move to AC Milan, while Jesus Vallejo has joined Albacete.

The Spaniard has no plans to retire, and it is understood that he could remain in La Liga, but he is also expected to have offers from a number of European clubs, in addition to interest from teams from the Saudi Pro League.

Written by
Matt Law