Luka Modric is leaving Real Madrid. The Croatian icon has confirmed his departure at the end of the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.
Luka Modric, 39, will bid farewell to the Santiago Bernabeu when Real Madrid (4.59) host Real Sociedad on Saturday. It will be their final Spanish LaLiga match of the season and their last home game for the Spanish giants.
Emotional Farewell From A Club Legend
Modric announced his decision with an emotional message on Instagram. He admitted that the moment he had never wanted to face had finally arrived. The veteran midfielder acknowledged that all good things must come to an end.
“The moment has arrived. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life everything has a beginning and an end,” Modric said on Instagram.
“I arrived in 2012 with the hope of wearing the jersey of the best team in the world and the ambition to do great things, but I couldn’t have imagined what came next,” he said.
“Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person. “I’m proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
Having joined from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, Modric went on to become one of Real Madrid’s all-time greats. He made a significant impact in both domestic and European competitions. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner helped Real Madrid dominate soccer for over a decade.
Trophy-Laden Spell In Madrid
Since joining the club, Modric has collected a staggering 28 trophies. His honours include six Champions League titles and four La Liga trophies. He also won six FIFA Club World Cups, more than any other Real Madrid player.
Additionally, Modric claimed five Spanish Super Cups, five European Super Cups and two Copa del Rey titles. In doing so, he overtook Nacho Fernandez to become the most decorated player in the club’s history.
Despite limited starts this season, Modric played 34 LaLiga games and contributed two goals and six assists. His creativity and vision remained valuable, even with reduced playing time. He was also instrumental in their Champions League run before they were eliminated by Arsenal in the quarter-finals.
Real Madrid’s Club World Cup Fixtures
Real Madrid will begin their Club World Cup campaign on 18 June. Their first opponent will be the Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. The group also includes Mexican club Pachuca and Austria’s RB Salzburg.
Modric will aim to end his Real Madrid journey with another trophy. The tournament will be his final opportunity to wear the iconic white shirt. A victory would mark the perfect send-off for the veteran midfielder.
Contract Expiry and New Management
Modric signed a one-year contract extension in 2023. That deal expires at the end of the current campaign. With no further renewal, his exit has now been confirmed.
Saturday’s La Liga clash will also be Carlo Ancelotti’s final game in charge of Los Blancos. Reports in Spain suggest that Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is set to take over. This marks a major transition period for Real Madrid, both on and off the pitch.
Modric’s Legacy At Real Madrid
Modric departs with an incredible record of 590 appearances, 43 goals, and 95 assists. More importantly, he leaves as a symbol of Real Madrid’s modern era of success. He consistently delivered on the biggest stages and embodied the club’s values.
Club president Florentino Perez praised the midfielder in a heartfelt statement. “Modric will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas as a unique and exemplary footballer who has always embodied the values of Real Madrid,” he said. “His football has captured the imagination of Madridismo and fans all over the world. His legacy will live on forever.”
Global Recognition and Ballon d’Or Triumph
Modric’s influence has not been limited to the club level. In 2018, he led Real Madrid to Champions League glory and then guided Croatia to the World Cup final. That extraordinary year earned him the Ballon d’Or, breaking the long-standing dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
This made Modric the first player outside that legendary duo to win the award since 2007. His performances that year were both elegant and tireless. He became a national hero in Croatia and a global soccer icon.
Breaking Age Records in La Liga
Modric has also made history with his longevity. He is the oldest player to appear for Real Madrid in La Liga. At 39 years and 116 days, he became the club’s oldest goalscorer when he netted in a 2-1 win against Valencia.
He surpassed Hungarian legend Ferenc Puskas to claim that record. Only Oscar de Marcos of Athletic Club and Koke of Atletico Madrid have served longer in La Liga. Modric’s professionalism and fitness set an example for younger players.
Life After Real Madrid
While his time in Madrid is coming to an end, Modric’s involvement in soccer continues. Last month, he became an investor and minority co-owner in Swansea City. The Championship club will benefit from his experience and global appeal.
This move signals Modric’s transition from playing to a broader role in the sport. It’s a common path for many legends, but few carry the same level of success and respect. He could also explore opportunities related to media, coaching, or online sports betting.
What Lies Ahead For Real Madrid?
Real Madrid is now entering a new era. With Modric and Ancelotti leaving, younger players will be asked to step up. The likes of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni are expected to lead the next generation.
Xabi Alonso, if appointed, will bring fresh ideas and a modern style of play. However, replacing Modric’s experience, leadership, and class on the pitch will be a tough task. His shoes are big ones to fill, both technically and emotionally.
A Farewell Worthy Of A Legend
Modric’s last appearance at the Santiago Bernabeu will be emotional. Fans are expected to give him a hero’s send-off. After 13 seasons, his departure will mark the end of an iconic chapter.
Yet, his name will remain etched in Real Madrid’s history forever. From his debut to his final assist, Modric gave everything for the badge. His story is one of ambition, success, and legendary status.
