Luka Modric, a legend at Real Madrid, will bring his brilliant era with the club to a close after the upcoming Club World Cup. Despite his desire to continue and the green light reportedly given by Xabi Alonso for the 2025-26 season, the club has decided not to extend his contract. Thus ends a historic chapter in the midfield of the Spanish giants.

In his 13 seasons wearing the white shirt, Modric forged an unforgettable partnership alongside Casemiro and Toni Kroos, amassing a staggering trophy haul: 6 Champions League titles, 4 La Liga championships, 5 Club World Cups, and 5 UEFA Super Cups, in addition to the Ballon d’Or he won in 2018.

As he prepares for his final matches, many wonder where Modric stands in the all-time rankings of midfield greats.

Is Modric the best midfielder in history? AI places a Barcelona icon ahead

To answer this objectively, the question was posed to ChatGPT, which delivered a ranking based purely on footballing impact, individual brilliance, and career achievements. Surprisingly, topping the list was none other than Xavi Hernández, a legend of Barcelona and the Spanish national team. According to the AI, Xavi’s control of tempo, space, and passing rhythm, alongside his collection of major titles—including 4 Champions League trophies and a World Cup—make him the ultimate midfield orchestrator.

Modric, meanwhile, ranks second. The AI highlights his balance between defensive effort, playmaking ability, and leadership, as well as his sustained excellence well into his late 30s. His role in Croatia’s run to the 2018 World Cup final, followed by a third-place finish in 2022, also adds significant weight to his legacy.

Behind them come names such as Lothar Matthäus, Andrea Pirlo, Sergio Busquets, and Fernando Redondo.

A historic legacy at Real Madrid

Modric leaves as the most decorated player in the history of Real Madrid, with 28 titles. He’s also the oldest to have worn the club’s jersey (surpassing Ferenc Puskás) and the player with the most appearances after turning 30, reaching 459 matches past that age.

His 590 total appearances place him ninth in the club's all-time list and second among foreign players, trailing only Karim Benzema. With 389 victories, Modric also ranks seventh in total wins as a Madridista.

Though he won’t reach 600 appearances or play until age 40, his final games—against Real Sociedad and in the Club World Cup—will mark the end of an era. An era defined by trophies, elegance, and a legacy that will live on in football history.