Legendary Croatian midfielder Luka Modric has brought his historic spell at Real Madrid to an end, leaving an indelible mark on the club and its fans. At 39 years old, the most decorated player in the club’s history played his final match for Los Blancos in the Club World Cup semifinals and said goodbye with heartfelt gratitude.

"This chapter has been unforgettable and full of glory. I’m incredibly happy for everything I’ve experienced at this club, which has given me everything, both as a footballer and as a person," Modric said in statements to the club's official media. In total, the Croatian star won 28 titles, a record that cements his legacy as a Madrid icon.

Arda Güler, Modric’s chosen one

The most symbolic gesture of Luka Modric’s farewell came at the end of his last match: the Croatian handed his shirt to Arda Güler, the young rising star of the team. A sign that did not go unnoticed among fans, who saw the act as a kind of “blessing” for the Turkish player to become the next leader of the midfield.

On social media, Arda Güler posted a picture of Modric’s shirt next to a white heart, sparking a wave of comments suggesting he is the Croatian’s natural heir. With his playing style, vision, and technical ability, Güler possesses qualities that remind many of Modric—and now, he carries the responsibility and honor of continuing that legacy.

A farewell full of emotion

Modric’s goodbye was deeply emotional, not only for the fans but also for club president Florentino Pérez, who was moved to tears during the final LaLiga match at the Santiago Bernabéu. "Florentino always treated me in a special way. His reaction says it all," Modric remarked.

Among the many memories he cherishes, Modric highlighted the triumph of La Décima as one of the most defining moments of the club’s identity: “Never giving up, always believing until the end.” It’s that same spirit he now hopes to see reflected in Arda Güler.

Real Madrid now enters a new era without Modric on the pitch, but with his legacy very much alive… and with a new number 10 to watch.