Real Madrid goalkeeper, Iker Casillas has concluded move to the portuguese league and will be joining Porto. The goalkeeper who had already accepted all terms and conditions from the Portuguese team was held back by his contract in Real Madrid before now.
Real Madrid has now confirmed the transfer and a deal have been reached, and the 34-year-old Iker Casillas will end his 25 year-old career in La Liga.
A statement on the Real Madrid website says :
Real Madrid and FC Porto have reached a deal on the transfer of Iker Casillas to the Portuguese club.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. 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.
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.
Iker Casillas arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu team in 1990, when he was only 9 years old, and made his way into the first team. He played 725 games across 16 seasons in the first team.
Casillas has won 19 titles: 3 Champions Leagues, 1 World Club Cup, 2 Intercontinental Cups, 2 European Super cups, 5 Ligas, 2 Copas del Rey and 4 Spanish Super cups.