Luka Modric Says Farewell to Real Madrid After 13 Legendary Seasons

Madrid, Spain – Luka Modric, the legendary midfielder for Real Madrid, will play his final match at the Santiago Bernabeu this Saturday against Real Sociedad. The announcement comes as the Croatian international concludes his unforgettable 13-season journey with the club.

The 39-year-old Modric confirmed his departure this week, revealing that he will also participate in the upcoming Club World Cup, allowing him one last opportunity to shine for Los Blancos. During his tenure with the team, Modric made 590 appearances, securing numerous trophies, including six Champions League titles and four La Liga championships.

Celebrated for his skill, intelligence, and humility, Modric became a symbol of excellence in football. His first manager at Real Madrid, José Mourinho, expressed pride in bringing Modric to the club. “Congrats, Luka!” Mourinho said, recalling Modric’s first medal win, the 2012 Spanish Super Cup against FC Barcelona.

Former teammates also shared heartfelt tributes. Ivan Rakitic, who played alongside Modric for Croatia, praised his longevity and contribution to football. “He is a lesson for all of us that age is just a number,” Rakitic stated. “He’s still playing at a very high level.”

Harry Redknapp, Modric’s manager at Tottenham, reflected on Modric’s transition to central midfield, saying, “He took a bit of time to settle in, but he had a very hard life. He grew up during the war in Yugoslavia. That made him a tough little character and a great person.”

As tributes poured in, Luka Modric expressed his gratitude. “I arrived in 2012 with the ambition to do great things, but I could not imagine what came next,” he stated. “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person.”

Modric plans to leave the field with a heart full of pride and unforgettable memories, emphasizing that Real Madrid will always be his home. His departure marks the end of a glorious chapter, closing a remarkable era of football history.