An ‘hasta luego’ from the captain.
It was an emotional moment as Sergio Ramos said goodbye to Real Madrid on Thursday. After Florentino Pérez gave a speech thanking the captain, Ramos also took to the podium to say a few words.
He started by saying: "It’s one of the most difficult moments of my life. You’re never ready to say goodbye to Real Madrid, but it’s time to say goodbye to Real Madrid. I arrived along with my father…"
At that moment, he broke into tears, overwhelmed by the emotion of this farewell from the club that he joined 16 years ago, back in 2005.
Ramos continued, though. He thanked his family and the club, before he finished by stating that he will return in some capacity one day. He said: "I thank my family, who have always been with me in the good and bad. I also want to thank my club and coaches and teammates, without whom none of this would have been possible. I thank all the club employees. And, of course, I thank the fans. I would have loved to say goodbye in our stadium, in the Bernabéu. I’ll always carry Real Madrid in my heart. These have been great years and we’ve won 22 titles with a lot of effort, dedication and professionalism, as is expected at Real Madrid. A unique stage is ending. Nothing will ever be like it was here, but I’m excited about the future too as I want to show my best level and I hope to win another title or two. With all my heart, I thank you all. More than a goodbye forever, this is just an ‘hasta luego’, because sooner or later I’ll be back."