The football world is mourning Luka Modric`s departure from Real Madrid. The player himself announced on his social media that, after 13 seasons, the Club World Cup will mark the end of one of football`s most beautiful recent stories. The Croatian arrived in 2012 without any titles and leaves at the age of 39 with 28 trophies, including a coveted Ballon d`Or. The white `10` bids farewell after a nearly perfect career, having earned the deep respect of professionals and fans alike, who have readily seized the opportunity to pay tribute to one of the greatest legends in the club`s history.
Modric: “The Time Has Come”
The moment nobody wanted has finally arrived. After weeks of speculation, the player himself confirmed that this would be his final season. The Croatian communicated his heartfelt decision through his social media channels.
Dear Madridistas: The time has come. The moment I never wanted to arrive, but that is football, and everything in life has a beginning and an end… This Saturday I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabéu.
I arrived in 2012 with the dream of wearing the shirt of the best team in the world and with the ambition of achieving 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 am proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras in the history of the greatest club.
I want to sincerely thank the club, especially President Florentino Pérez, my teammates, coaches, and everyone who has helped me throughout this time. Over these years, I have experienced incredible moments, seemingly impossible comebacks, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabéu… We have won everything, and I have been very happy. Very, very happy.
But beyond the titles and victories, I carry the affection of all the Madridistas in my heart. I truly don`t know how to explain the special connection I have with you and how supported, respected, and loved I have felt and continue to feel. I will never forget every ovation and all the gestures of affection you have shown me.
I leave with a full heart. Full of pride, gratitude, and indelible memories. And although, after the Club World Cup, I will no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Madridista. We will meet again. Real Madrid will always be my home. Forever.
With these words, the player announced the end of a relationship that brought immense success and joy to Real Madrid fans. This coming Saturday, starting at 4:15 PM, is set to be a great tribute to the legend. Moments after his announcement, many rushed to thank the Croatian maestro for all his dedication and service to the club and to football in general.
Reactions to Modric`s Farewell
Vinicius, Rodrygo, Brahim, Güler… the entire current squad quickly came forward to express their gratitude for everything the now-former Real Madrid player contributed to the club`s fanbase. The Brazilian forwards, in particular, shared some of the most emotional tributes. “It was years sharing a changing room with a legend,” Vini began his farewell message, concluding with a simple, heartfelt “Thank you for everything, Maestro.” “Dad, today is a very sad day for me and for the Madridistas,” was Rodrygo`s touching farewell, visibly emotional and affected by the departure of his idol and role model at the club. Others like Brahim or Güler also wanted to say goodbye to their captain: “One of the best ever,” stated the Turkish player. Or “Maestro, I will love you forever,” shared the Malaga winger. Bellingham, another deeply moved teammate, declared: “The only thing that surpasses my sadness right now is the gratitude I feel for having had the honor of being your teammate.” But beyond his current teammates, former colleagues with whom he shared so many unforgettable memories were also quick to respond to the Croatian`s announcement. The most emotional messages included those from Arbeloa, Karim Benzema, Isco Alarcón, and even Cristiano Ronaldo himself, who also took the time to remember the legendary midfielder.
