Real Madrid have announced that captain Luka Modric will leave the club after the FIFA Club World Cup, starting 18 June in the United States.
The Spanish giants expressed heartfelt gratitude to Modric, hailing him as one of the greatest legends in their storied history and in world football.
“Luka Modric will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas as a unique and exemplary footballer who has embodied the values of Real Madrid,” said club president Florentino Perez.
“His football has captivated our fans and supporters worldwide. His legacy will endure forever.”
Modric joined Real Madrid in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur and became a cornerstone of one of the club’s most successful periods.
Over 13 seasons, the midfielder amassed an astonishing 28 trophies, including six Champions League titles, six Club World Cups, five Uefa Super Cups, four La Liga titles, two Copa del Reys, and five Spanish Super Cups.
His six European Cups place him among an elite group of five players in football history to achieve the feat, while his 28 titles make him the most decorated player in Real Madrid’s 123-year history.
On an individual level, Modric’s accolades are equally remarkable. In 2018, he claimed the Ballon d’Or, Fifa’s The Best Men’s Player award, and Uefa Player of the Year honour. He has been named in the Fifa FIFPro World XI six times and voted the Champions League’s Best Midfielder twice.
Across 590 appearances for Madrid, Modric scored 43 goals and earned a Ballon d’Or and a Silver Ball at the Club World Cup.
Internationally, Modric has been a talisman for Croatia, holding the record for the most caps with 186 appearances. He won the Golden Ball at the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the Bronze Ball at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats.
Madrid have announced that the Santiago Bernabeu will host a tribute to Modric during their final La Liga match of the season on Saturday, a fitting farewell for a player who has left an indelible mark.
“We wish Luka Modric and his family the very best in this new chapter of his life,” the club added.
X Updates: Posts on X reflect widespread admiration for Modric’s legacy, with fans calling him “the greatest midfielder of his generation” and praising his elegance and leadership.
Some users speculate about his next move, with potential interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and the MLS, though no official confirmation has emerged.
