‘End of an Era’: Luka Modric Plays Final Game for Real Madrid After 13 Iconic Years
It’s official, Luka Modric has played his final game in a Real Madrid shirt. After 597 appearances, 28 trophies, 13 unforgettable years, and a Ballon d’Or to his name, the Croatian magician has said goodbye to the Santiago Bernabéu.
And though the curtain closed with a thumping defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final, Modric’s legacy at Real Madrid will be remembered as one of the finest in the club’s decorated history.
Since joining from Tottenham in 2012, Modric became the heartbeat of Real’s midfield, racking up six Champions League titles, four La Liga crowns, and countless goosebumps for Madridistas around the world.
Speaking on Instagram after his exit was confirmed, the 39-year-old said:
“The moment has arrived. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life everything has a beginning and an end.”
“I arrived in 2012 with the hope of wearing the jersey of the best team in the world and the ambition to do great things, but I couldn’t have imagined what came next.”
“Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person.”
“I’m proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
Modric will join AC Milan next season after finishing his final campaign in Spain with two goals and six assists in 34 La Liga appearances, helping Real lift two trophies. He also featured in every match during the club’s Champions League run to the quarter-finals, where they were knocked out 5-1 on aggregate by Arsenal.
His one-year contract extension expired at the end of the Club World Cup and with it, so did a golden chapter of Real Madrid history.
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Club president Florentino Pérez paid tribute:
“Modric will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas as a unique and exemplary footballer who has always embodied the values of Real Madrid.”
“His football has captured the imagination of Madridismo and fans all over the world. His legacy will live on forever.”
By the end of his final season, Modric had overtaken Nacho Fernández to become the most decorated player in Real Madrid’s history with 28 titles. A true legend. A midfield artist. And yes, the end of an era.
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