Lazio legend Patric joins Al-Ittifaq on a free transfer..

Lazio announced on their official website on Wednesday that club legend, Spanish defender Patric has joined Al-Ittifaq on a free transfer, bringing his 11-year tenure with the club to a close.

In an official statement, everyone at Lazio expressed deep gratitude for Patric’s hard work and dedication over the years, acknowledging his legendary status at the club and wishing him success in his future endeavors.

According to local UAE media reports, Patric has signed on a contract short-term two-year deal with the UAE First Division club which will only run until the summer of 2028.

Following the announcement of his transfer, Patric shared a farewell video via Lazio’s official website, saying: "I sincerely thank the teammates who fought alongside me over the years, the club, and all the fans who have shown me such deep affection."

"The journey hasn't always been smooth, sometimes requiring significant personal sacrifice, but seeing such immense love from everyone makes me feel it was all worth it."

Rome will always be my home. Forza Lazio, the capital's number one team. ”

About Patric

The 33-year-old Patric was born on April 17, 1993, in Mula, Murcia, Spain. He is 1.84 meters tall and primarily plays as a center-back but can also play as a right-back or defensive midfielder.

Patric played for the youth academies of Muleño, Real Murcia, and Villarreal during his childhood. At the age of 15, he joined Barcelona's renowned La Masia youth academy, began playing for Barcelona B in 2012 and completed his first-team debut by coming on as a substitute in a UEFA Champions League match the following November.

After his contract expired in the summer of 2015, Patric joined Lazio on a free transfer.

During his time with I Biancocelesti , Patric made 244 appearances across all competitions for the Serie A side, scored 6 goals and provided 6 assists, where he also helped the team win the Supercoppa Italiana twice and the Coppa Italia once.

Image source: Internet / Lazio official website