May 23 – Luka Modrić will bid farewell to Real Madrid this summer, with the Club World Cup marking the final chapter of his glittering 12-year career in the Spanish capital.
The 39-year-old Croatian, a Ballon d’Or winner in 2018 and one of the defining midfielders of his generation, will play his final La Liga match at the Santiago Bernabéu this Saturday when Real host Real Sociedad.
The occasion will serve as a send-off for both Modrić and coach Carlo Ancelotti, whose own tenure is also drawing to a close as he heads to South America to take over the Brazil national team.
Modrić confirmed his departure in a heartfelt message posted on Instagram: “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.”
The former Tottenham man joined Real Madrid in 2012 and has since become synonymous with the club’s modern era of dominance, amassing 28 trophies – including six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. His calm authority, technical precision, and leadership in midfield were instrumental to Madrid’s success both domestically and in Europe.
“Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person,” he wrote.
“I’m proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
Modrić will remain with the squad through their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, where Real face Al Hilal, Pachuca, and RB Salzburg in the group stage. The tournament kicks off on June 14 in the United States.
Despite a reduced role this season, Modrić made 34 La Liga appearances, contributing two goals and six assists. His presence remained influential as Madrid reached the Champions League quarter-finals, where they fell to Arsenal.
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