"It was truly a privilege to share a locker room with Modrić."
The British 'Tribuna' reported on the 23rd (Korean time), "Kylian Mbappé (27) paid tribute to Luka Modrić (40, Real Madrid), who is departing."
Real Madrid announced on the 22nd through the club's official website, "The unforgettable time with Modrić will conclude with the Club World Cup. We would like to express our gratitude and affection to one of the greatest players in the club and world football history."
Prior to the club's announcement, Modrić addressed fans with a farewell message on his social media. He wrote, "This is a moment I did not want, but everything has an end. The time I spent at Real Madrid completely changed my life and career as a player."
In closing, he stated, "I will always be a Madridista. We will meet again, and Real Madrid will always be my home," finishing the message with "Hala Madrid!"
Modrić joined Real Madrid in 2012 after leaving Tottenham Hotspur, playing 590 matches and lifting a total of 28 trophies, including 6 UEFA Champions League titles, 4 La Liga titles, and 6 Club World Cup victories. This is the record for the most titles in Real Madrid's history. Notably, the "C-C-Kamo" line, formed with Kroos and Casemiro, was key to achieving a Champions League three-peat, remembered as a legendary midfield combination that defined an era.
In 2018, he led Croatia to a runner-up finish in the FIFA World Cup in Russia and won the Ballon d'Or, breaking the dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He also won the FIFA The Best and UEFA Player of the Year awards, marking him as the "exceptional pinnacle of the Menaldo era."
Despite everything, the separation came. Modrić expressed willingness to accept a salary reduction and be a backup to re-sign, and Real showed a positive attitude towards Modrić's retention, even amidst rumors of Xabi Alonso's appointment. However, the club chose to undergo a full generational shift.
Real Madrid is preparing for a new era centered around a young midfield line featuring Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga. President Florentino Pérez said, "Modrić has always represented the values of Real Madrid. His legacy will remain forever in the memories of the club and its fans" as he bid farewell.
Team mate Mbappé also spoke up. He noted, "It was truly a privilege to share a locker room with you this season."
He added, "I witnessed firsthand what 'greatness' looks like from a close distance. Modrić is not only one of the greatest players of all time but also a person with a remarkable character."
He continued, "Modrić has written history at the world's best club for over 10 years and achieved everything. But he gained something even more precious: the respect and admiration of the world. Thank you for everything, Legend," concluding with a tribute.
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