Real Madrid legend Luka Modric has officially announced that he will leave the Spanish giants after this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, ending a historic 12-year journey filled with trophies, magic moments, and pure class.
The 39-year-old Croatian midfield maestro confirmed the news on Instagram Thursday, declaring that Saturday’s match at the Santiago Bernabeu will be his final home appearance in a Real Madrid shirt.
“Everything in life has a start and an end… on Saturday I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabeu,” wrote Modric. “I’m leaving with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories.”
A Legacy Like No Other
Since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 for €35 million, Luka Modric has crafted one of the most decorated careers in world football. While he initially faced challenges adjusting to La Liga, he quickly became the heartbeat of Madrid’s midfield, earning admiration from fans, pundits, and teammates alike.
In 590 appearances, Modric has scored 43 goals and assisted countless others. But his true value went far beyond statistics — he was the rhythm, the brain, and often the soul of Los Blancos.
He helped Real Madrid win:
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6 UEFA Champions League titles
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4 La Liga titles
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2 Copa del Rey trophies
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5 FIFA Club World Cups
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5 UEFA Super Cups
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5 Spanish Super Cups
This incredible list of honors makes him the most decorated player in Real Madrid’s 123-year history.
Ballon d’Or Winner and World Cup Finalist
Modric’s incredible 2018 campaign saw him win the Ballon d’Or, breaking the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. That year, he led Croatia to the World Cup final, where they finished runners-up to France — the best-ever finish for the small Balkan nation.
His performances that year, both for club and country, were nothing short of sensational. He combined vision, technique, leadership, and tireless work ethic to become one of the most admired midfielders on the planet.
Farewell Message from a Legend
In his emotional farewell message, Modric thanked the club and the fans for 12 unforgettable seasons. “Throughout these years I’ve experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations and magical nights at the Bernabeu,” he wrote.
“We won it all and I was very happy. Very, very happy.”
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Despite the fact that his contract runs until June 30, 2025, Modric has agreed with Real Madrid to leave following the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, which ends on July 13. If Madrid go deep into the tournament, Modric will stay slightly beyond his contract expiration.
Real Madrid’s Tribute to Their Midfield Maestro
Real Madrid released an official statement praising Modric for his loyalty, excellence, and historical impact.
“Real Madrid and our captain Luka Modric have agreed to end an unforgettable era after the Club World Cup that our team will compete in from June 18,” the club announced.
“Modric is one of the five players in football history to win six European Cups and the player with the most trophies in 123 years of Real Madrid’s existence.”
Club president Florentino Perez was full of admiration, stating:
“Modric will always stay in the hearts of all Madrid fans as a unique and exemplary footballer, who has always represented Madrid’s values. His legacy will remain forever.”
GRACIAS.#GraciasLuka pic.twitter.com/mLhhWtwNty
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) May 22, 2025
Ninth-Most Appearances in Club History
With 590 games under his belt, Luka Modric is the ninth-highest appearance maker in Real Madrid history. Only legends like Raúl (741), Iker Casillas, and Sergio Ramos have featured more.
And yet, few have captured the imagination and respect of Madridistas like Modric has. From inch-perfect passes and outside-the-foot assists to clutch goals in Champions League knockouts, he’s been at the center of some of Real Madrid’s greatest modern moments.
Loved by the Fans, Respected by the World
Modric’s influence stretched far beyond the Spanish capital. Known for his humility, professionalism, and footballing IQ, he’s admired globally — from fans in Croatia to kids wearing his shirt in South America or Asia.
He represents not just a generation of winning football but a style defined by elegance, intelligence, and pure passion for the game.
Even after announcing his departure, Modric made one thing clear:
“I will always be a Madrid fan.”
And for the millions who watched him wear the white shirt with pride, he’ll always be a Real Madrid legend.
