The Santiago Bernabéu witnessed an afternoon full of emotions and nostalgia this Saturday. One of the most important names in Real Madrid’s recent history, Luka Modric, played his final home game in the white shirt, on a day that also marked a possible silent farewell for another veteran of the team: Lucas Vázquez.

Among the figures present to say goodbye to Modric stood out Toni Kroos, who retired from professional football last season. The German, Modric’s inseparable midfield partner for years at Real Madrid, didn’t want to miss the opportunity to accompany the Croatian in his last appearance at the Bernabéu. Alongside Casemiro, they formed a legendary trio that defined a golden era in the club’s history.

A farewell with no statement? The Lucas Vázquez case

While the crowd gave Modric a standing ovation, another player who proudly wore the white shirt for a decade was living his own farewell. Lucas Vázquez, who joined the club in 2007 and reached 400 official matches with the first team, left the field in the 75th minute and said goodbye to the fans with an emotional round of hugs and applause.

Unlike Modric and Carlo Ancelotti, who had official statements from the club confirming their departures, Lucas’s case was not publicly announced, although everything indicates it was his final game at the Bernabéu. His departure could become official after the Club World Cup, in which he’s still expected to play due to Dani Carvajal’s absence.

The Galician full-back shared a warm embrace with Ancelotti after being substituted, and with tears in his eyes, walked to the sideline to thank the fans chanting his name. A discreet but heartfelt farewell, worthy of his dedication in every season as a Real Madrid player.

Lucas ends his Real Madrid career with an enviable trophy haul: 5 Champions Leagues, 5 Club World Cups, 4 UEFA Super Cups, 4 LaLiga titles, 4 Spanish Super Cups, and 1 Copa del Rey. His transformation from winger to right-back extended his top-flight career, always serving as a reliable asset for various coaches.

A new era is on the horizon. In the coming days, the club is expected to officially announce the signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will strengthen the right-back position for next season. One chapter ends at the Bernabéu, as another one is about to begin.