Tears of a legend: Iker Casillas's Real Madrid leaving speech

ByMaxwell Ward

Updated 12/07/2015 at 22:01 GMT

Legendary Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has made a touching leaving speech after his move to Portuguese side Porto brought a 25-year association with Los Blancos to an end.

“First of all, thank you for joining me in this special moment," he began.

“I have come to this great stadium to say goodbye to all of you and, especially, Real Madrid.

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“As you know, I stopped being a Real Madrid player [on Saturday]. I’m joining Porto for two reasons.

“The first is desire on the Portuguese club’s part to sign me. The second is the affection that I’ve received [from them] in recent days.

“I’m very happy and pleased by this interest, and I’ll do all I can to win every possible trophy [with Porto].

“Now, I want to address Los Blancos. This difficult day has come to say goodbye to this club that have given me everything.

Iker Casillas arrives ahead of his Real Madrid leaving speech

Image credit: EFE

“It only seems like yesterday that I wore the Real Madrid jersey for the first time as a nine-year-old.

“I saw my dream fulfilled. During this time, I’ve felt very loved. This club have also formed me as a person and helped me grow. I’ve tried to always carry their values.

Iker Casillas gives his leaving speech

Image credit: EFE

“Throughout these years, I’ve experienced unique moments. I leave great friends behind, but I know I can always count on them.

“I also want to thank all my coaches. I remember them all because of the many things that I’ve learned from them.

“[I] also [want to thank] the various coaching staff for giving me advice and understanding in bad times and entire club staff, who have been part of Real Madrid. They’re not seen but are always there.

“Thank you to my parents and family, who have always been by my side, plus my wife and son.

Iker Casillas

Image credit: EFE

“Thank you Real Madrid for your unconditional support, being your captain for the last five years and being able to lift trophies.

“Above all, more so than being remembered as a good or bad goalkeeper, I hope that I’m remembered for being a good person.

“To the thousands of you [the fans], thank you. I’ll never be able to forget you. I’ll follow you wherever you go, shouting ‘Hala Madrid’.

“I won’t say goodbye because we shall meet here again soon.”

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