Luka Modric has confirmed he’ll depart Actual Madrid after this summer time’s Membership World Cup.
The Croatia midfielder had held talks over a short-term renewal however, with no settlement reached, opted to stroll away now somewhat than tarnish his legacy.
Modric, 39, joined Madrid in August 2012 from Tottenham and has been a key participant of their current successes, profitable 4 La Liga titles and the Champions League six instances.
Modric pens emotional letter
In a letter to Madrid followers on Instagram, Modric wrote: “The time has come. The second I by no means wished to return, however that’s soccer, and in life all the things has a starting and an finish. On Saturday I’ll play my final match on the Santiago Bernabéu.
“I arrived in 2012 with the need to put on the shirt of the very best crew on the planet and with the ambition to do massive issues, however I couldn’t think about what got here subsequent.
“Taking part in at Actual Madrid modified my life as a soccer participant and as an individual.
“I really feel proud to have been a part of one of the vital profitable eras of the very best membership in historical past.
“I wish to thank the membership from the underside of my coronary heart, particularly the president Florentino Perez, my team-mates, coaches and all of the individuals who have helped me throughout this time.
“All through these years I’ve skilled unbelievable moments, comebacks that appeared not possible, finals, celebrations and magical nights on the Bernabéu. We received all the things and I used to be very joyful. Very, very joyful.
“However past the titles and victories, I carry in my coronary heart the love of all Madrid followers. I actually don’t know find out how to clarify the particular connection I’ve with you and the way supported, revered and cherished I’ve felt and really feel. I’ll always remember every ovation and all of the gestures of affection you will have proven me.
“Leaving with a full coronary heart, stuffed with delight, gratitude and unforgettable recollections. And regardless that, after the Membership World Cup, I’m now not going to put on this shirt on the sector, I’ll at all times be a Madrid fan.”
THANK YOU.#GraciasLuka pic.twitter.com/yf1s5W9dxE
— Actual Madrid C.F.
(@realmadriden) May 22, 2025
Modric’s closing recreation on the Bernabeu will come on Saturday when Madrid host Actual Sociedad.
He’ll then be part of the squad that can journey to the US for the Membership World Cup. It’s not but recognized whether or not he’ll proceed to play elsewhere or grasp up his boots. Modric has already began planning for all times after enjoying by turning into a minority proprietor of Championship membership Swansea Metropolis.
Actual Madrid president Florentino Pérez stated: “Luka Modrić will ceaselessly stay within the hearts of all Madridistas as a singular and exemplary footballer who has at all times embodied the values of Actual Madrid. His soccer has captured the creativeness of Madridismo and followers all around the world. His legacy will reside on ceaselessly.”
The membership have already introduced plans to honour his contribution throughout the recreation on the weekend.
