DONE DEAL: Canales says farewell to Real Betis as Monterrey transfer confirmed 'I thought I'd retire here'

Real Betis have announced the sale of Sergio Canales to Monterrey.

The former Spain midfielder moves to the LigaMx giants for a mooted fee of 15m.

Betis announced today: "Betis warmly appreciates the services provided by the Cantabrian player during the seasons in which he has belonged to Real Betis and wishes him the best of luck in his professional future."

Later today, Canales enjoyed an official farewell at the club's training centre.

He said in an address to teammates and staff:

"I landed at the airport in 2018 and I remember that a fan yelled at me 'you're going to succeed here', 'it's going to be incredible'. I thought 'as soon as I arrived, this passion for football...' and I quickly lived it in my flesh. The first derby, the first night at the Benito Villamarn... unique moments.

"I have met amazing people. I have always said that you can make an effort, you can give your best, but when you are 50, I will remember the people, the moments that I have lived. The titles will be in the background.

"Betis is the most important club of my career. When I renewed, and until not long ago, my dream was to retire here. I understand that it is a difficult decision to understand, but last year was the hardest of my career, it cost me a lot and this decision is well thought out, I think it is the best. It's hard to explain, but I've always tried to be honest, to say what I feel. Last year, what I always do is do my best and when I see that I have reached my limit, that a cycle has ended, I told the club, before knowing anything, and I think it is the best for everyone.

"I am forever grateful. A wonderful city. My family is very happy here. Special mention to the president, thanks for everything, from the bottom of my heart, Josemi, board of directors... thanks for humanizing the footballer. Thank you for respecting and helping me. That leaves any thought that I may have of football far above.

"Thank you teammates, you have made me very happy. Workers, you are incredible, a treasure for the club. My agents, thank you for everything, for supporting me and for understanding me in my madness for wanting to leave.

"Thanks to my wife, last year was the hardest of your life and you supported me in everything.

"Thank you."