Following the confirmation of his high-profile switch to Real Madrid on Sunday, Dutch international Denzel Dumfries has shared a poignant farewell message to Inter. Reflecting on half a decade in Milan, the wing-back noted that he arrived as "a boy" embarking on his first foreign venture and departs as "a man."

"The time has come to say goodbye to something that means so much to me: Inter. These five years have been an incredible journey, full of unforgettable moments, great joys, and also some difficulties," the defender wrote in an emotional video shared via his Instagram account.

During a trophy-laden spell with the 'Nerazzurri', the 30-year-old helped the club secure two Serie A titles, three Italian Cup trophies, and three Italian Super Cups.

"The boy who arrived to live his first adventure abroad leaves today as a man, with his wife, three children, and a heart overflowing with gratitude and precious memories," he added.

Dumfries, who is set to sport the famous white shirt for the next four seasons, also extended his thanks to the coaching staff at the San Siro: "You have become a family."

"Finally, a special thank you to all the fans who have supported me at every turn. Your backing has always been immense and I have never taken it for granted. From day one, I gave everything for these colours and this club. Now, the time has come to say goodbye," concluded the Rotterdam-born star.

Prior to his arrival in Italy, Dumfries established himself at Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven, where he spent three seasons following earlier spells with Heerenveen and Sparta Rotterdam.

The right-back recently represented the Netherlands at the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, where the Oranje were eliminated in the round of 32 following a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco.

D. Dumfries

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