Modric says goodbye to Real Madrid

“The time has come,” Luka said. The day that felt like it never would. Modric is leaving Madrid. Still playing football that defies his age. Still relevant. With Xabi Alonso’s blessing. And with a fanbase that desperately wanted him to stay. But sometimes, reality breaks through. The No. 10 says goodbye. After a week of talks with the club, a renewal never materialized. Modric wanted to share the news himself. No delayed farewells. His sendoff will come Saturday, against Real Sociedad. “Real Madrid will always be my home. Forever.” Doviđenja, Luka.

Modric’s statement

“Dear Madridistas, the time has come. The time I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life, everything has a beginning and an end... On Saturday I will play my last game at the Santiago Bernabéu.

I arrived in 2012 with the dream of wearing the shirt of the best club in the world and the ambition to achieve great things, but I could never have imagined what would follow. Playing for Real Madrid changed my life, both as a footballer and as a person. I’m proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras in the history of this incredible club.

I want to sincerely thank the club, especially President Florentino Pérez, my teammates, coaches, and everyone who’s helped me throughout this journey. Over the years, I’ve experienced incredible moments — unbelievable comebacks, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabéu. We’ve won everything, and I’ve been so happy. Truly, deeply happy.

But more than titles and victories, what I’ll carry in my heart is the love from all the Madridistas. I can’t even explain the special connection I feel with you, how supported, respected, and loved I’ve felt. I will never forget the ovations and the affection you’ve shown me.

I’m leaving with a heart full of pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. And though after the Club World Cup I won’t wear this shirt on the field again, I will always be a Madridista. We will meet again. Real Madrid will always be my home. For life."

Modric was willing to stay on as a premium substitute. Willing to take another pay cut, like last summer, just to stay until 2026. To hang up his white boots before doing the same with the checkered ones at the World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. But in negotiations, the clarity never came. He didn’t want to gamble with his goodbye. The Club World Cup will be the last chapter. But Saturday will be the farewell to his people. Like Ancelotti will have. Like Kroos already had. The kind of goodbye only legends get. And that’s what Modric is. Which is why this isn’t goodbye. It’s see you later.

Thirteen years of history are coming to an end. Thirteen years of glory. He arrived at 27. He leaves nearly 40. An eternal footballer. A golden career, like him. A Ballon d’Or winner. The man who broke the Messi-Ronaldo duopoly in 2018 — a year missing only the cherry on top: a title with Croatia, who reached the World Cup final in Russia. But if there’s one thing his backpack is full of, it’s trophies. Twenty-eight with Madrid. More than anyone in the club’s 123-year history. Among them, six Champions Leagues, that heavenly tier he shares with Carvajal, Kroos, Nacho, and Gento. A name among the greats, just like his football. Just like his 590 masterclass appearances. Match 591 won’t be the last, but it will be special. After that comes the Club World Cup. But Saturday, against Real Sociedad, is his Bernabéu goodbye. His sweet home, as he’s called it before. He’ll say farewell, but he won’t be gone. Legends never really leave.

Mourinho’s greatest legacy, beyond breaking through the Champions League round of 16 barrier. “I insisted on bringing Modric because he had everything we needed: technique, vision, game reading, decision-making, quick thinking, long passes, short passes, goals from distance, pressing, intensity, intelligence in positioning,” said The Special One. And he was right. It cost €35 million to sign him from Tottenham. Back then, that seemed like a lot. In the end, a bargain. For what many now consider the greatest midfielder in Real Madrid’s history.

The boy who learned to play in the Balkans. Who never seemed to stop fighting. A midfielder with a priceless touch. Who overcame doubts about his physique early on. But not for himself. “I always believed I could make it. That wasn’t a barrier. It was extra motivation. You don’t need to be big to play football.” He never was. He never had to be. He became a legend without it. Of football. And especially of Real Madrid. The end of an era.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.