Luka Modric leaving Real Madrid after the Club World Cup

National Post

22-05-2025

Real Madrid and midfielder Luka Modrić — the most decorated player in the club's history — have agreed to part ways after the Club World Cup.
Article content
Article content
The 39-year-old Modric will leave after an 'unforgettable time as a player at our club,' Madrid said on Thursday.
Article content
'Real Madrid wishes to express its immense gratitude and appreciation for a player who has become a true legend both of our club and world football.'
Article content
Modric arrived at Madrid in 2012 and became a key player during one of the most successful periods in the club's history.
Article content
In 13 seasons, Modric helped the club win 28 titles: Six European Cups, six Club World Cups, five European Super Cups, four Spanish leagues, two Copas del Rey and five Spanish Super Cups.
Article content
He had been playing fewer minutes in recent seasons under coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Article content
The Club World Cup starts mid-June in the United States, and Madrid will pay tribute to Modric in its last match of the season on Saturday against Real Sociedad in La Liga at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Article content
'Luka Modric will forever remain in the hearts of all madridistas (Madrid fans) as a unique and exemplary footballer who has always embodied the values of Real Madrid,' club president Florentino Perez said. 'His football has captured the imagination of madridismo and fans all over the world. His legacy will live on forever.'
Article content
Modric has 590 appearances for Madrid — eighth on the club's all-time list — and 43 goals.
Article content
He is one of only five players to have won six European Cups.
Article content
In 2018, Modric won the Ballon d'Or, was named FIFA's best men's player and UEFA's men's player of the year. Twice he's been named the best midfielder in the Champions League.
Article content