After 12 unforgettable years, Luka Modric has announced he will leave Real Madrid after this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
The 39-year-old confirmed the emotional news in an Instagram post on Thursday. He said goodbye to a journey that made him the most decorated player in the club’s history.
Modric’s last game at the Santiago Bernabéu will be this Saturday against Real Sociedad. It’s Madrid’s final La Liga match of the season. He will still join the team for the Club World Cup in the United States next month. But that tournament will be the last time he plays in Real Madrid colours.
“The time has come. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life, everything has a beginning and an end,” Modric wrote. “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a football player and as a person. I am proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
View this post on Instagram
Modric joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. He had a slow start but soon became one of the club’s most important players. He played nearly 600 matches and won close to 30 major trophies. That includes six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga trophies.
His Ballon d’Or win in 2018 showed his greatness. He was the first player in over a decade to win it after Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Although, after the Club World Cup, I will no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Madridista,” he added.
“Luka Modrić will forever remain in the hearts of all Real Madrid fans” – Florentino Pérez
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez praised Modric’s career. “Luka Modrić will forever remain in the hearts of all Real Madrid fans as a unique and exemplary footballer, who has always represented the values of Real Madrid. His football has captivated Real Madrid fans and fans around the world. His legacy will live on forever.”
For the Latest Sports News: Follow RevSportz