Modric to leave Real Madrid after Club World Cup

Luka Modric has confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid after this summer’s Club World Cup, bringing an illustrious chapter of his career with the Spanish giants to a close. The 39-year-old Croatian midfielder made the announcement in an emotional Instagram post on Thursday, revealing that Saturday’s match at the Santiago Bernabeu will be his last at the iconic stadium.

“Everything in life has a start and an end… I’m leaving with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories,” Modric wrote. “Even though, after the Club World Cup, I’m no longer going to wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Madrid fan.”

Since joining Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 in a €35 million move, Modric has played nearly 600 matches for the club. During his 12-year spell, he helped the team win six UEFA Champions League titles, four La Liga championships, and numerous other domestic and international trophies.

Modric’s early days at Madrid were rocky, but he soon grew into a central figure in one of the most dominant eras in the club’s history. His vision, passing, and composure in midfield made him one of the world’s finest players, culminating in a Ballon d‍‍`Or win in 2018. That year, he not only starred for Real Madrid but also led Croatia to the World Cup final in Russia.

Reflecting on his time with the club, Modric recalled moments of drama and triumph: “I’ve experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabeu. We won it all and I was very happy. Very, very happy.”