Luka Modric has confirmed he will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season, bringing a 12-year spell at the club to a close.
The Croatian will bid farewell to the Santiago Bernabeu when Madrid meet Real Sociedad in their final home match of the La Liga campaign on Saturday.
He will then take part in the Club World Cup before officially departing.
Modric’s contract expires this summer, and no extension has been offered. Despite his desire to stay for one more season, the club have opted to draw a line under a glittering era.
In a message to supporters, Modric said Saturday would mark his final appearance at the Bernabeu, calling it ‘the moment I never wanted to come’.
He described his move to Madrid in 2012 as life-changing and said he leaves with ‘a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories’.
“We won everything and I was very happy – very, very happy,” he said. “But beyond the titles and victories, I carry in my heart the affection of all Madrid fans.”
Modric also thanked president Florentino Perez, his coaches, teammates and club staff, acknowledging their role in helping him achieve what he called ‘one of the most successful eras of the best club in history’.
“Even though, after the Club World Cup, I’m no longer going to wear this shirt on the field, I’ll always be a Madrid fan,” he added.
Modric will leave Madrid having won six Champions League titles, four La Liga trophies, two Copa del Reys and multiple other honours.
He became a symbol of control, consistency and leadership in midfield, combining with Toni Kroos and Casemiro to form one of the most dominant trios in the club’s history.
Madrid president Perez said Modric ‘will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas’, describing him as ‘a unique and exemplary footballer’ who embodied the club’s values.
