Emotional tributes pour in from Real Madrid legends to Luka Modric’s farewell | OneFootball

Luka Modric’s farewell to Real Madrid after 13 unforgettable seasons has left an emotional void not only among fans but also within the ranks of some of football’s most celebrated names.

Having worn the famous white shirt with distinction since 2012, the Croatian maestro didn’t just win trophies, he won hearts, friendships, and lasting admiration from teammates past and present.

Among the most heartfelt tributes came from Cristiano Ronaldo, who shared countless historic moments with Modric. The Portuguese icon summed up their years together with grace:

“Thank you for everything, Luka! It has been an honour to share so many moments with you at the club. Much success in whatever comes next!”

Real Madrid legends reacted to Modric’s decision of leaving.

Karim Benzema, another modern Real Madrid great, called him a “number 10 player forever,” a nod to both Modric’s shirt number and his status as a footballing genius.

Toni Kroos, who formed one of the most iconic midfield trios alongside Modric and Casemiro, posted a photo with the pair, adding: “What a career, my friend!”

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Isco Alarcon also joined in, lauding not only Modric’s footballing talent but his unmatched personal charm: “Having everyone love you is the hardest thing, and you have achieved it with your football and your way of being! You are a great friend!”

Alvaro Arbeloa kept it short and emotional, describing Modric as “One of us,” encapsulating his deep bond with the club and its identity.

Former captain Nacho Fernandez poured his heart out: “My Lukita… admiration and respect for an exemplary person and athlete. Your magic on the pitch is the same magic you transmit to all of us who admire you. Your name is on the Real Madrid crest.”

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Perhaps the most stirring message came from Marcelo, one of Modric’s closest companions throughout Real Madrid’s golden era. The Brazilian left-back didn’t hold back his emotions:

“My dear Luka… Today is one of those days when my heart aches. We shared dreams, triumphs, defeats, laughter, and silences. You were much more than a teammate: you were and always will be a LEGEND.

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“It’s hard to imagine the locker room without you. In 13 years, you have made history at the best club in the world. I love you, brother. This isn’t goodbye, it’s just a see you later.”

Other voices added to the chorus. Joselu called Modric an “unsurpassed person and footballer” and wished him well for the next stage.

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Mesut Ozil praised his intelligence and elegance on the ball: “You’re closing a great chapter, but how you played will always be remembered.”

As Modric prepares for his final appearance at the Santiago Bernabeu, the curtain is closing on an era that may never be replicated. But if football is about more than goals and assists, if it is about art, loyalty, and respect, then Luka Modric has achieved it all.