Luka Modrić (40) bid farewell to Real Madrid fans with whom he has shared 13 years.
Modrić announced his farewell on the 22nd (Korean time) through social media. He wrote, "Dear Real Madrid fans, the moment has come. It is a moment I have wished would never come, but that’s football. Everything in life has a beginning and an end. I will play my last match at Santiago Bernabéu (Real Madrid's home stadium) on Saturday."
He reflected on his journey by saying, "I arrived at Real Madrid in 2012, dreaming of achieving great feats while wearing the uniform of the best team in the world. But I could never have imagined what would happen next. Playing here has changed my life as a football player and as a person. I am proud to have been part of the most successful era in the history of the greatest club."
He continued, "In recent years, I have experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, victory celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabéu. We have won everything, and I was very happy. I am truly, truly happy. But more than that, I cherish the affection of all the fans in my heart. I will never forget all the cheers and kindness you have shown me."
Finally, Modrić said, "I leave with a full heart. It is filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. After the Club World Cup, I will no longer wear this uniform on the pitch, but I will always be a Real Madrid fan. We will meet again. Real Madrid will always be my home. For life. Hala Madrid."
Real Madrid also officially announced on the same day through the club's website that "our team captain Modrić has agreed to conclude his unforgettable time as a player for our club after the Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States starting June 18. Real Madrid would like to express its gratitude and deep affection to him, who is already one of the greatest legends of our team and world football."
Additionally, Real Madrid stated, "Modrić joined Real Madrid in 2012 and was an essential player during the brightest era in the club's history. He won 28 trophies over 13 seasons. He is one of only five players in football history to win the UEFA Champions League six times and holds the record for the most titles in the 123-year history of Real Madrid."
Florentino Pérez, president of Real Madrid, remarked, "Modrić will forever remain in the hearts of all Real Madrid fans. He has always represented the values of Real Madrid as a special and exemplary football player. Modrić's football captivated Real Madrid fans and fans around the world. His legacy will be remembered forever."
In conclusion, Real Madrid added, "We wish the best of luck to Modrić and his family as they enter a new stage in life. We will pay our respects to him this Saturday at the Santiago Bernabéu (Real Madrid's home stadium), where the last La Liga match will take place."
Modrić is a legend representing an era at Real Madrid. After leaving Tottenham in 2012, he emerged as a world-class midfielder. Over the past 13 seasons, he has accumulated 28 trophies, including six UEFA Champions League titles, five FIFA Club World Cups, five UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga titles, and two Copa del Rey titles.
His individual awards are also legendary. Modrić won the Ballon d'Or and UEFA Player of the Year awards in 2018, becoming the recipient of the Ballon d'Or that had been dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He has also been selected for the FIFA FIFPro World Best XI six times and won the UEFA Champions League Best Midfielder twice.
However, time was undefeated. While Modrić has continued to show his class, setting records as the oldest player to appear in games, it is now time to part ways. He wished to continue with Real Madrid, even if it meant a salary reduction, but the club chose generational change instead of renewing his contract.
Reports say that newly appointed manager Xabi Alonso sought to extend Modrić's contract. Indeed, there were discussions about a renewal, but the Real Madrid board changed its mind over the course of a few days, making it a non-issue. Ultimately, he is set to leave Real Madrid after 13 years due to the expiration of his contract, with a career record of 590 matches, 43 goals, and 95 assists.
Many support messages have poured in for Modrić as he departs. Various legends came to bid farewell on his last letter. Karim Benzema wrote, "Thank you so much. You are my eternal No. 10," while Raphaël Varane applauded, saying, "Luka Modrić… an eternal legend!" Kylian Mbappé also left a white heart emoji, calling him "a legend."
Now, it is farewell to Real Madrid, but Modrić's story will continue. He plans to participate in the 2026 North American World Cup, so it is reported that he hopes to play at least one more season.
According to Croatian media, Modrić is receiving offers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. He is said to prefer the U.S. stage where next year's World Cup will be held.
Modrić is also an essential player for the Croatian national team. He holds the record for the most appearances for Croatia, playing 186 A matches. He has shown strong performances in the World Cup as well, winning the Golden Ball at the 2018 Russia World Cup and the Bronze Ball at the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
[Photo] ESPN FC, Real Madrid, B/R Football, Fabrizio Romano social media.
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