Real Madrid Appoints Nacho Fernandez as New Captain Following Karim Benzema’s Departure
Nacho Fernandez is set to become Real Madrid’s new captain in the wake of Karim Benzema’s exit from the club, according to reports.
Benzema had taken on the role of vice-captain in 2021 after Sergio Ramos left, and he was later promoted to captaincy following Marcelo’s departure last summer.
Multiple sources now indicate that Nacho is on the verge of signing a contract extension, which would keep him at the La Liga giants until 2024.
The 33-year-old has been associated with Los Blancos since his youth and was initially set to become a free agent at the end of June. However, Bleacher Report suggests that the Spanish defender has had a change of heart and is now committed to extending his stay under the management of Carlo Ancelotti.
Nacho’s decision to renew his contract comes as a blow to Inter Milan, who were reportedly interested in signing him on a free transfer this summer. The Champions League finalists of 2023 had offered the Spaniard a three-year deal.
Alongside Nacho, the other three captains on the four-man list are expected to be Luka Modric, Dani Carvajal, and Toni Kroos.
Who is Nacho Fernandez?
Born in Madrid, Nacho joined Real Madrid’s academy at the age of 11. He steadily progressed through the ranks, featuring regularly for Real Madrid Castilla before making his debut for the first team in 2011 under the guidance of Jose Mourinho.
In 2013, he earned a permanent spot in the senior squad, as reported by 90 min.
While primarily a center-back, Nacho has demonstrated his versatility by playing in various defensive positions for Real Madrid throughout his career. He has filled in as a right-back, left-back, and central defender, including the current calendar year.
Why Nacho Fernandez?
As the longest-serving player currently at the club, Nacho is expected to take on a more leadership-oriented role both on and off the field. Although not a regular starter when everyone is available, he made 18 La Liga starts in the 2022/23 season, according to Soccerway.
Nacho was also an unused substitute on nine occasions. A similar pattern emerged in the Champions League, where he played only eight minutes beyond the round of 16.
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