Spanish midfielder Guti has brought the curtain down on his 15-year professional career with Real Madrid.
The 33-year-old made his official farewell during a press conference on Sunday, accompanied by sporting director Jorge Valdano.
In total, he played 542 matches in a number of positions, scoring 77 goals and winning 15 trophies including five league titles and three Champions League crowns.
"I believe you have to be aware that there are stages that close and in this case for me it is a very glorious stage at Real Madrid which is coming to an end," Guti told a news conference at the club's Bernabéu stadium.
"I grew up in Madrid and I have played at this club for the last 24 years, of which 15 were in the first team. I will continue playing but my heart will continue to be with Real Madrid.
"Thank you to everyone. I go knowing that Real Madrid will always be my home."
The former Spain international is expected to leave for Turkey to be reunited with former Real coach Bernd Schuster at Besiktas.
On the possibility of a move to Besiktas, Guti added: "I have a good offer from them, an interesting one, now we'll see. It wasn't an easy decision."
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The 33-year-old made his official farewell during a press conference on Sunday, accompanied by sporting director Jorge Valdano.
 Real Madrid midfielder Guti reacts during a news conference Photo: Reuters |
Guti, who had another year on his contract, joined the club as a nine-year-old and came up through Real's academy before making his debut in December 1995.
In total, he played 542 matches in a number of positions, scoring 77 goals and winning 15 trophies including five league titles and three Champions League crowns.
"I believe you have to be aware that there are stages that close and in this case for me it is a very glorious stage at Real Madrid which is coming to an end," Guti told a news conference at the club's Bernabéu stadium.
"I grew up in Madrid and I have played at this club for the last 24 years, of which 15 were in the first team. I will continue playing but my heart will continue to be with Real Madrid.
"Thank you to everyone. I go knowing that Real Madrid will always be my home."
The former Spain international is expected to leave for Turkey to be reunited with former Real coach Bernd Schuster at Besiktas.
On the possibility of a move to Besiktas, Guti added: "I have a good offer from them, an interesting one, now we'll see. It wasn't an easy decision."
Related links:
Team
Personal
Also see:
