Real Madrid new boy Jesus Vallejo has expressed his gratitude to Real Zaragoza in an open letter on the club’s official website.
The Spain Under-19 defender, who recently guided La Roja to Euro U21 glory, completed a €5m switch to Los Blancos on Friday, although he will spend one more season at La Romareda before beginning his career in the capital.
“Today’s a very exciting day for me, having completed my transfer to Real Madrid CF this morning,” he began.
“I’m very excited about taking the step that every professional footballer in world football dreams of, to one day sign a contract with Real Madrid CF.
“I’m also sad because I will no longer wear the jersey of my life, the one that welcomed me as a child and educated me as a person and professional.
“I worked the best bunch of coaches and teammates [at Zaragoza] and I hope to return at some point during my career, whether it be sooner or later. This is my home.
“Moreover, I can’t help but think how much [gratitude] I owe to all of you who, over the years, have shown me so much love and affection, that I can’t find words to thank you.
“I feel very proud to have played for Real Zaragoza and taken the [captain’s] armband on your behalf.
“I don’t want to leave without mentioning my parents, who accompanied me in all my steps [to get here] by always setting an example and devoting their lives to only making me happy.
“Fortunately, it has been agreed that I will continue wearing your shirt, and I’m very grateful to Real Madrid for their generosity in allowing me to continue growing as a professional and help take Real Zaragoza where they at least belong, which is La Liga.
“From today onwards, I’m thinking about nothing else, other than to reach this objective. Once again, thank you.
“See you soon at La Romareda and a big hug for everyone!”
