Lucas Vázquez ends 10-year spell with Real Madrid

Real Madrid and Lucas Vázquez officially announced this Wednesday the end of their contractual relationship, closing the chapter on what has been a remarkable and emotional journey spanning more than a decade in the club’s first team.

For many fans, this marks the departure of one of the most dedicated and versatile players to wear the famous white shirt in recent years. Vázquez’s contribution to Real Madrid goes far beyond statistics he has been a symbol of resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment, qualities that endeared him to the Santiago Bernabéu faithful.

During his time with the first team, Vázquez accumulated 402 official appearances and contributed significantly to one of the most successful periods in the club’s illustrious history. He leaves the Spanish capital with an astonishing 23 major titles, including five Champions League trophies an achievement that places him among the most decorated players in the modern game. Additionally, he lifted five FIFA Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and four Spanish Super Cups. These numbers underline not only his longevity but also his consistent importance to a squad packed with world-class talent.

In a heartfelt video shared on his social media platforms, Vázquez bid farewell to the club that shaped him as both a player and a person. “Today, after more than 400 matches, I have to say goodbye to the club of my life, but I leave with peace of mind and the certainty that I gave everything I had. I was always aware of the responsibility and the privilege of representing this badge,” the 34-year-old said, visibly emotional. His words resonated deeply with supporters who had watched him evolve from a promising youth prospect into a reliable and committed senior player.

Vázquez’s connection to Real Madrid began back in 2007 when he joined the club’s youth system at the age of 16. He steadily climbed the ranks, featuring for Real Madrid Castilla before being loaned to Espanyol for the 2014-15 season, where he gained valuable first-team experience in La Liga. His performances in Catalonia convinced the Real Madrid hierarchy to bring him back, and he made his first-team debut in September 2015 under then-coach Rafa Benítez.

Initially recognized as a right winger, Vázquez’s career took a notable turn when Zinedine Zidane, among others, frequently utilized him as a right-back a position he embraced with remarkable adaptability. His willingness to put the team’s needs ahead of personal preference became one of his defining traits, and it allowed him to remain an integral part of various managerial regimes, from Zidane to Carlo Ancelotti. His work ethic, tactical intelligence, and humility made him a model professional within the Real Madrid locker room.

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez did not hide his admiration for Vázquez’s legacy at the club. “Lucas Vázquez perfectly embodies the values of Real Madrid, which made him one of the most beloved players among our supporters. His career symbolizes hard work, perseverance, humility, and the winning spirit essential to succeed with this shirt,” Pérez stated in an official club release. The president also confirmed that Vázquez will be honored in a formal tribute on Thursday, a gesture that reflects the esteem in which he is held within the club.

In his farewell message, Vázquez reflected not only on his career but also on the life lessons learned along the way. “I enjoyed every match, every training session, every trip. If this journey taught me anything, it’s that only you decide how far you can go. I may be leaving Real Madrid, but Real Madrid will never leave me,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to the fans, teammates, coaches, and staff who supported him throughout his time at the club, emphasizing that wherever his career takes him next, he will always speak with pride about having played for “the best team in the world.”

Though Vázquez has yet to announce his next destination, there is little doubt that his experience, versatility, and leadership qualities will be valuable assets wherever he lands. At 34, he still has much to offer, both on the pitch and as a mentor to younger players.

For Real Madrid supporters, the departure of Lucas Vázquez is the end of an era not because of flashy headlines or individual accolades, but because of the quiet, dependable excellence he brought to every game. His legacy is not just measured in titles but in the respect and affection he garnered from everyone associated with the club. The phrase “Real Madrid will never leave me” will surely resonate with fans who know that, no matter where Vázquez plays next, his heart will always remain at the Santiago Bernabéu.