Farewell
“Today is a very important day for myself and my family. The time has come to say goodbye to where has been my home for six and a half years. It’s been a difficult decision for me and my family, but as I’ve always said, my departure from Málaga CF had to be beneficial for everyone, and this is a great opportunity. I have to acknowledge the fact that I have mixed feelings. On the one hand, I’m excited about this new phase of my career and enjoying a new experience. However, on the other hand, I’m sad that this cycle has come to an end, at a place where I’ve been very happy. I’ve spent the best years of my life in Málaga”.
Home
“From the first day, I identified with this Club and this city. I’ve always tried to give the best of myself, on and off the pitch. I’ve experienced some unique moments, both good and bad, that will always remain in my memory. The Champions League, my call-up to Spain’s national squad, and the honour of wearing the captain’s armband. When I arrived at Málaga I was only a boy, and was given the opportunity to grow and mature both personally and professionally. I’ve made my family here, and my son was born a Malagueño and Malaguista. The only thing that would relax him was the Málaga hymn, that my wife knows so well”!
Thanks
“I want to thank a lot of people for a lot of things. First, Málaga CF, all the directors who have accompanied me over these six and a half years. President Al Thani and his family, for allowing me to wear this jersey and for always believing in me. To all the employees at the Club, who make the day to day much easier for us. To all the journalists for treating me with affection and respect; and to all the coaches and assistants. I’ve learnt a great deal from all of you. You’ve made me a better footballer and a better person. To Javi Gracia, for whom I have a special soft spot. And also to you Míchel, it’s been a short but intense time. I know I’m leaving my Málaga in good hands. I’m grateful to everyone who works each day and whom I’ve shared the years with: the medical team, physios, recovery staff, equipment managers…Thank you for putting up with me and welcoming me from the very first day. I know I’m not easy. Players come and go, but you are the soul of this Club. To all my teammates I’ve shared the years with. Confidants, colleagues and friends I have for life. That’s one of the best things about football. I thank my family for supporting me during the tough times. I am who I am thanks to you. To my wife, my friend, my travelling companion. Together with our son we’re taking an important step, which we’re very much looking forward to. What can I say about Málaga, the Malagueños, Malaguistas, and all the fans? This city that the whole world falls in love with. We’ve enjoyed, suffered, cried…but we’ve always been together. Thanks to your support every weekend, I’ve always felt loved and embraced by you. A Malaguista is going, but wherever I am, I will carry you in my heart. Thank you for everything Málaga. I will be back…”.
