Real Madrid Potential exit from Real failed to come to fruition in summer

Sitting on the bench may be something of a full-time occupation for Nacho Fernandez, but the Real Madrid defender has no regrets after turning down alternative advances in the off-season.

Roma were among the sides to make an approach for the Los Blancos backup, who has been with the Spanish giants for 15 years.

"I have several years left on my contract, and my first choice has always been Real Madrid. It is true that I had many contacts in the summer, but we decided that I would stay put this year," said the Real Madrid defender.

"I thought about [leaving] a lot. Many teams were interested and could offer me more minutes, but I'm happy to stay and be successful at my home club.

"I had a conversation [with Zidane], which gave me confidence and I was grateful. Last year I played more minutes and I must keep on progressing, proving that I can make a difference when required."

Of course, the main issue for Nacho is arguably the quality of his teammates, as forcing out Pepe, Raphael Varane, and captain Sergio Ramos, will continue to prove difficult in the 2016/17 season.

"It's an advantage to play with them because they have learned a lot over the years, and thanks to them, I am the player I am," he added.

"The downside is that they take prominence over game time, but I am here to fight and make it difficult for the coach."

Starting out at Real under Jose Mourinho, Nacho has admitted that the problems surrounding his position for a short time did not phase him.

"I always say I have much to thank [Mourinho] for," stated the Spaniard. "It was he who brought me through, gave me my first contract with the first-team, and gave me my debut.

"I feel more comfortable as a central defender, but if one day Mourinho is my coach and plays me on the wing, that is not a problem."

Entering his seventh season since making his debut for Real, the defender will hope to be involved as Madrid travel to Real Sociedad on Sunday.