Luka Modric to Leave Real Madrid at End of Season
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In a move that has been expected for some time, Luka Modric has announced that he will leave Real Madrid when his contract expires at the end of this season. The 39-year-old Croatian midfielder made the announcement on his Instagram account, stating that he will play his last game at the Bernabeu on Saturday, when Madrid host Real Sociedad in their final La Liga match of 2024-25.
According to a report from The Athletic, Modric had been keen to stay at the club, but following talks with the coaching staff and management, it was decided that he would depart. In his statement, Modric said, “I am leaving 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 Real Madrid fan.”
Modric has had a glittering career at Real Madrid, playing 590 times for the club since joining from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. He has scored 43 goals and won an impressive 26 trophies, including four La Liga titles and a record-equalling six Champions League trophies. In 2018, Modric won the Ballon d’Or, becoming the first player other than Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi to do so since Kaka in 2007.
The Athletic reported in June 2024 that Modric had taken a decrease in salary to sign a one-year extension, after taking on a secondary role with his appearances often coming as a substitute. Despite this, Modric has remained a key player for Madrid, making 23 starts and 25 substitute appearances across La Liga and the Champions League this season.
Modric’s departure follows that of head coach Carlo Ancelotti, whose appointment at Brazil was confirmed last week. The Croatian midfielder is the third longest-serving player of any team in the Spanish top-flight, behind Oscar de Marcos of Athletic Club and Koke of Atletico Madrid. As The Athletic notes, Modric’s exit marks the end of an era at Real Madrid, with the midfielder having been a key member of the club’s midfield alongside Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
Guillermo Rai, Real Madrid correspondent for The Athletic, said, “With Modric’s exit comes the departure of a member of what has surely been the best midfield in Madrid’s history. Together with Toni Kroos and Casemiro, the Croatian won four Champions League titles and led one of the best periods in the club’s history.” Rai added, “Despite his longevity, Modric always showed a competitive spirit that has been maintained until the end and is considered an example of ‘silent’ leadership within the dressing room.”
As reported by The Athletic, Modric’s quality and technique have made him a legend at Real Madrid, and his departure will be felt by the club. The Croatian midfielder has been key to the club’s success over the years, regardless of who was on the bench, from Jose Mourinho to Carlo Ancelotti. With his announcement, Modric has brought an end to a remarkable chapter in his career, and his legacy at Real Madrid will be remembered for years to come.
Modric’s achievements at Real Madrid are a testament to his dedication and hard work. As The Athletic notes, Modric has become the oldest player to represent Madrid in La Liga, surpassing the record previously held by Ferenc Puskas. In January, Modric also overtook Puskas as Madrid’s oldest goalscorer at 39 years and 116 days, as he scored the equaliser in Madrid’s 2-1 win over Valencia.
In conclusion, Luka Modric’s departure from Real Madrid marks the end of an era at the club. With a glittering career spanning over a decade, Modric has left an indelible mark on the club. As reported by The Athletic, Modric’s legacy will be remembered for years to come, and his contributions to the club will not be forgotten.
The impact of Modric’s departure will be felt by Real Madrid, and the club will have to find a way to replace his experience and leadership. As The Athletic notes, Modric’s exit follows that of head coach Carlo Ancelotti, and the club will have to adapt to a new era. With his announcement, Modric has brought an end to a remarkable chapter in his career, and his legacy at Real Madrid will be remembered for years to come.
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