Nacho Fernandez has been one of the most underrated players of Real Madrid in recent years.
Despite not establishing himself as a bonafide starter in the team, his commitment when given a chance has never been questionable.
The Merengues’ recent spell with injuries highlighted the Spaniard’s importance in the team, for Nacho was there to cover at both left-back and right-back when the situation demanded it.
Such was his influence that Jurgen Klopp named him the single reason behind Liverpool’s collapse after a good start at Anfield.
The centre-back’s contract with Real Madrid ends in the summer and there is no agreement between the two parties over an extension. While the club want Nacho to continue, the player has his doubts for a plethora of reasons.
According to reports from SPORT, Nacho has rejected Real Madrid’s first renewal offer which was for one additional year. The player wishes for a longer commitment with the club and expects a proposal that sees him at the club for two seasons at least.
The player’s demand is not unreasonable. However, it does not fit into Real Madrid’s ideology. The Merengues have limited veterans’ contract extensions to a single year and even club legend Sergio Ramos was forced to leave after denying to accept the one-season proposal on the table.
Nacho has started just eight games for Los Blancos this season in La Liga and has overseen four clean sheets. He averages over five defensive actions including three duels won per game.
In addition to the duration of his contract, Nacho’s dilemma over an extension stems from his sporting situation. The centre-back was said to be deeply affected by his lack of playing time at the beginning of the season, though the situation has changed in recent weeks.