Luka Modric has announced his departure from Real Madrid
Luka Modric has announced his departure from Real Madrid at the end of the season.
The Croatian, 39, has been with the Spanish giants for 13 years after joining from Tottenham and has gone on to become the club’s most decorated player ever.
Modric has collected 28 team trophies during his time with Los Blancos and even toppled Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to win a Ballon d’Or back in 2018.
‘The moment 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 match at the Santiago Bernabeu.
‘I arrived in 2012 with the desire to wear the shirt of the best team in the world and with the ambition to do big things, but I couldn’t imagine what came next.
Modric will play his final match for Real Madrid at this summer’s Club World Cup – where they will face Al Hilal, RB Salzburg and Pachuca in their tournament group.
In a statement on the club website, Madrid president Florentino Perez wrote: ‘Luka Modric 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.’
During his time at the club, the ex-Tottenham midfielder has won four LaLiga titles, six Champions League titles and two Copa del Rey – among a number of others.
Last month, the veteran maestro revealed he wishes to retire in Madrid. He said: ‘Yes, I’d like to retire at Real Madrid, it would be a dream for me’.
Recently, the midfielder became a part owner of Championship side Swansea City.
