Luka Modric to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season | OneFootball

Luka Modric will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season after a decorated career with the club.

Modric’s contract is due to expire in the summer and the Croatian has opted to leave the Spanish capital after 13 years with the club.

The 39-year-old is the most decorated footballer in Real Madrid’s history with his list of honours including four La Liga titles and six Champions League trophies among 28 major honours.

Modric has made 590 appearances for the Spanish giants, scoring 43 goals, since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. In 2018, he was named winner of the Ballon d’Or for his role in Real Madrid’s double success and Croatia’s run to the World Cup final. He became the first player since 2007 to win the accolade outside of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

In a letter to the fans, Modric has confirmed his decision and says he leaves with a ‘full heart’ after a trophy-laden time at the Bernabeu.

“Dear Madrid fans,

The time has come. 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 Bernabéu,” he said.

“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.

“I want to thank the club from the bottom of my heart, especially the president Florentino Perez, my teammates, coaches and all the people who have helped me during all this time.

“Throughout these years I’ve experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations and magical nights at the Bernabéu… We won everything and I was very happy. Very very happy.

“But beyond the titles and victories, I carry in my heart the affection of all Madrid fans. I really don’t know how to explain the special connection I have with you and how supported, respected and loved I have felt and feel. I will never forget each ovation and all the gestures of affection you have shown me.

“Leaving with a full heart. Filled with pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories. And 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.

“Hala Madrid and Nothing Else!”

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