34-year-old Iker Casillas has agreed to join Porto opening up the door for Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea to move to the Spanish giants.
Casillas has been with Real Madrid for 25-years during which time he has won three Champions Leagues and five Liga titles.
He also holds the record for Spanish international caps, (162) winning two European Championships and the World Cup.
His departure will come as sad news for Madridistas, but they all know that signing David DE Gea is a step in the right direction for one of the world’s largest clubs.
Real Madrid issued a statement that read: “For Real Madrid today is a day, above all, of thanks and recognition. One of the best goalkeepers in this club is not just leaving, today the greatest goalkeeper in the history of the club and in the history of Spanish football is moving on to a new stage in his footballing career.
“This goodbye evokes thousands of sensations and memories charged with hope, anticipation, sacrifice, strength and unique triumph. Iker Casillas has made our coat of arms even greater. He has been our captain and has forged his legend here since he arrived as a child at just nine years of age.
“Our club is 113 years old and Casillas has worn our jersey for 25 of those years. During that time he has become one of our finest leaders and has won the respect, affection, admiration and love of the fans beyond colours and affiliations.
“Iker is leaving, but his legacy is here forever. His attitude and actions in the 725 games he played in the our jersey shine a light on the path for those who dream of being part of this team.
“Thank you Iker, for everything you have done. Thank you for being a symbol of the best in our history. You are going but we will never forget that you’ll always belong to the heart of Real Madrid.”
