Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal let the tears flow as he said goodbye to Los Blancos after Saturday's final game of the season.
He recorded an assist in Saturday's 4–2 win over Athletic Club—the 451st appearance of his career for Madrid in all competitions—before delivering an emotional farewell to the club.
Career Summary
Aside from one season at Bayer Leverkusen, Carvajal has spent his entire career with Real Madrid, coming through the academy and returning in the summer of 2013 to become a permanent starter at the Bernabéu.
"It's the Club of My Life"
When asked by RMTV to describe what Madrid meant to him, Carvajal said:
"It's not just that it's the club of my life, it is my life. I was born a Real Madrid fan, I've been here for 23 years, I've played in every division, I've won everything there is to win, I've even been captain... I couldn't ask for more. I'm leaving very happy and fulfilled."
"If someone had told me as a child that I would have this career, I wouldn't have imagined it. It's been wonderful, spectacular from the first day to the last. Triumphs, difficult moments that helped me mature, sharing a dressing room with wonderful people... It's the best club in the world."
"We made history together. I hope everyone leaves with good memories of Dani Carvajal. We'll see each other in the future."
He added:
"Yesterday, seeing the training ground, today seeing the banner they made for me, the ovations... How could I not be emotional? I'm closing a wonderful chapter, an unforgettable career. I only have words of gratitude for the club and the fans. Thank you, I've enjoyed it like a child, from the first day to the last."
Grand Send-Off at the Bernabéu
Carvajal then took to the Bernabéu turf for one final time as a player, paying tribute to everyone who helped him reach this moment.
"First, I want to thank our president, Don Florentino Pérez. He's the one who brought me back from Germany, and we've won many Champions Leagues together. But if I have to highlight one thing, it's that not even 24 hours after my knee injury, he didn't hesitate to renew my contract."
"Finally, thank you all—you are wonderful. From the first day to the last, you carried me on your shoulders. Seeing this farewell makes me incredibly proud to be a Madridista."
"I only want you to remember me with pride and with the certainty that I gave everything for this shirt. Yesterday, today, and always—Hala Madrid!"
Where Will Dani Carvajal Go Next?
While Carvajal hinted at a future with Madrid further down the line, there are no suggestions that he is looking to bring his playing career to a close this summer.
Despite his advanced years, there will still be plenty of suitors for the right back. He has previously claimed he will leave Europe once his time with Madrid comes to a close.
Potential landing spots include Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League, both of which have emerged as attractive options for aging European stars. Carvajal also has admirers in Qatar.