Veteran Croatian midfielder Luka Modric will officially leave Real Madrid after the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, drawing the curtain on a legendary 13-year career at the Spanish powerhouse. The 39-year-old playmaker, widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, will play his final match at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Saturday, marking the end of an era in European football.
A Glorious Chapter Nears Its End
In a heartfelt statement released on Thursday, Real Madrid confirmed the news of Modric’s imminent departure, celebrating his immense contributions and legendary status within the club.
“Real Madrid wishes to express its immense gratitude and appreciation for a player who has become a true legend both of our club and world football,” the statement read.
The club praised Modric not only for his exceptional talent and consistency on the field but also for his professionalism, leadership, and embodiment of Madridismo throughout his time in the Spanish capital.
Modric, who turns 40 in September, joined Los Blancos in 2012 from English side Tottenham Hotspur, and quickly became a central figure in one of the most successful eras in Real Madrid history.
Final Match at the Bernabéu
The Croatian maestro is set to make his final appearance at the Santiago Bernabéu in a La Liga clash against Real Sociedad this Saturday. The emotional match is expected to draw a sold-out crowd of fans eager to pay tribute to a man who wore the white jersey with distinction for over a decade.
“The time has come. The moment I never wanted to come—but that’s football,” Modric wrote on Instagram. “In life, everything has a beginning and an end. On Saturday, I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabéu.”
His departure also coincides with the exit of manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is leaving Real Madrid at the end of the current campaign. Under Ancelotti and previous coaches, Modric has been instrumental in Real’s domestic and European dominance.
Club World Cup: A Final Dance
Modric’s final official tournament with Real Madrid will be the FIFA Club World Cup, which begins in mid-June in the United States. Real Madrid will represent Europe after winning the UEFA Champions League, and Modric is expected to captain the side one last time.
“Although, after the Club World Cup, I will no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Madridista,” Modric added in his Instagram message. “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a football player and as a person. I am proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
An Unmatched Legacy
Since arriving in 2012, Modric has amassed an astonishing 28 trophies with Real Madrid — a record that cements his place among the all-time greats at the club. His silverware collection includes:
- 6 UEFA Champions League titles
- 6 FIFA Club World Cups
- 5 UEFA Super Cups
- 4 La Liga titles
- 2 Copa del Rey titles
- 5 Spanish Super Cups
Modric also achieved individual greatness. In 2018, he won the Ballon d’Or, breaking the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. That same year, he led Croatia to the FIFA World Cup Final, earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. He continued to receive accolades in later years, including the prestigious Marca Legend Award in 2022.
His influence extended far beyond trophies. Known for his elegant passing, tireless work rate, and ability to dictate tempo, Modric redefined the role of a central midfielder in the modern era. He was a tactical genius, able to control games with a calm demeanor and unmatched football IQ.
Reduced Role in Final Season
In recent seasons, Modric saw reduced minutes under Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid began integrating younger talents like Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga into the midfield. Despite his limited time on the pitch, Modric remained a key leader in the dressing room and a vital presence in decisive matches.
Real Madrid fans, known for their demanding nature, continued to show unwavering respect for the Croatian icon. Saturday’s match is expected to be an emotional send-off, with fans, teammates, and club legends likely to honor Modric’s legacy.
Future Still Undecided
As of now, Modric’s next destination remains unclear. There has been speculation about a possible move to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States, Saudi Arabia, or even a return to his boyhood club Dinamo Zagreb. However, the midfielder has yet to confirm any plans.
What is certain is that Modric intends to continue playing football — a testament to his fitness and passion for the game.
“I still feel good physically. I love this sport and I still have a few years left in me,” he said in a recent interview.
A Madridista Forever
Regardless of where Modric goes next, his legacy at Real Madrid is etched in gold. From his debut in 2012 to lifting his sixth Champions League trophy in 2024, he has embodied excellence, loyalty, and leadership.
“You don’t replace a player like Luka Modric,” said former teammate Sergio Ramos. “You just thank the heavens that he wore your jersey.”
As the Bernabéu prepares to bid farewell to one of its greatest servants, Modric’s impact will live on — in the hearts of fans, the record books, and the DNA of Real Madrid.
