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Real Madrid supporters turned Santiago Bernabeu into a sea of emotion as they bid farewell to David Alaba and Dani Carvajal. Fans recreated Alaba’s unforgettable chair celebration, while Carvajal was visibly moved to tears as he said his goodbyes to the club where he achieved so much success.

Bernabeu bids adieu to two beloved stars

During Real Madrid’s 4-2 victory over Athletic Club, the home crowd offered a heartfelt tribute to Alaba in his final appearance for the team. As the Austrian defender was substituted in the 68th minute, thousands of fans lifted chairs above their heads, paying homage to the gesture that became iconic during Real Madrid’s dramatic Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain in 2022.

Alaba reflects on an emotional farewell

Having battled serious injury setbacks in recent seasons, Alaba was overcome with emotion as he left the pitch. Later, the defender expressed his gratitude to the club, coaching staff, teammates, and supporters as he closed this chapter of his career. Speaking to RMTV after the match, Alaba admitted that it was hard to put his feelings into words after the moving tribute from the fans.

“I haven’t prepared much, so I’ll keep it short,” he said. “I’m a bit shy, but thank you so much for everything. Honestly, thank you for all the support and love you’ve shown me. I’ve really enjoyed these five years with you. We’ve shared so many great moments together.”

“Most importantly, thank you for standing by me through the toughest period of my career with my knee injury. You never left my side, and I’ll always carry that with me. My heartfelt thanks to the club and to all of you who will remain in my heart forever. Let’s celebrate a legend and a wonderful person — Dani Carvajal!”

End of an era for Los Blancos

Carvajal too fought back tears as he addressed the Bernabeu faithful, reflecting on his long and decorated career with the club. The right-back expressed gratitude to everyone who had been part of his journey, acknowledging the players and coaches who had contributed to one of the most successful eras in Real Madrid’s illustrious history.

“Good evening, Madridistas. It’s not easy for me to speak right now because I’m extremely emotional about this beautiful farewell you’ve given me,” Carvajal said. “First, I want to thank our president, Mr. Florentino. He was the one who brought me back from Germany. Under his leadership, I’ve grown and we’ve won so many Champions titles together. But what stands out most is that even just 24 hours after I suffered a serious knee injury, he renewed my contract without hesitation. I’ll never forget that gesture.”

“I also want to thank all my teammates, the current squad of Real Madrid. The past two seasons haven’t been easy, but I’m confident we’ll rise again. This is Real Madrid — our history demands it. I can’t overlook this golden era we’ve enjoyed. My heartfelt thanks also go to my parents and sister for their sacrifices during my early years — taking me to training and matches in all kinds of weather. You made my dream possible. And to my wife and children, thank you for everything.”

“Lastly, thank you to all of you, the fans. You are incredible. From the first day until now, you’ve carried us forward. What happens in this stadium can’t be explained — it can only be felt. Your support has meant everything to me. Seeing this farewell fills me with pride to be a Madridista.”

“Thank you for being there through the impossible comebacks, through good times and bad. Some players are remembered for their trophies, others for the connection they built with the supporters. I just hope that when you think of me tomorrow, you do so with pride and know that I gave everything for this shirt. Yesterday, today, and always. Hala Madrid!”

New chapter begins at the Bernabeu

The farewells of Alaba and Carvajal marked the end of a significant era at Real Madrid following a challenging season. Interim coach Alvaro Arbeloa also stepped down, as the club looks ahead to a period of transition. The focus now turns to building the next generation of stars, spearheaded by Kylian Mbappe, while filling the leadership and experience void left by long-serving figures like Carvajal and Alaba will be a major task for the Madrid hierarchy.