Xabi Alonso has paid tribute to Liverpool after departing for Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The Spaniard finally completed his move to Madrid after weeks of speculation saying he was after a fresh challenge.

He did however, thank the Reds for making his five years at the club so special.

"It's a very happy day for me," said Alonso. "It's an important step in my career to come to a club like Real Madrid. I'm very happy to be part of this club and I was very excited for this day to arrive. It's the best opportunity for me to develop as a footballer.

"I am very grateful to Liverpool fans, they were very warm during my five years," he added.

"It will be really difficult to match their appreciation. I really enjoyed those five years. But a few months ago I took that decision as I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club. That's when Real Madrid came along. Luckily a deal has been done and I'm very happy.

"It is a personal challenge I felt is necessary for my football career. I felt it was right, so I looked for a change, for a new experience and, when Madrid came in, that's when I decided to come back to Spain."