Luka Modric has officially announced that he will leave Real Madrid after the Club World Cup set to take place this summer in the United States. With this decision, the legendary Croatian midfielder brings an end to a golden era at the club, where he became one of the most important figures in its modern history.

The player shared the news through his social media accounts, posting an emotional farewell message. “The moment I never wanted to face has arrived, but that's life and football,” he wrote. “This Saturday I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabéu,” he confirmed.

Modric joined the Madrid club in 2012 from Tottenham, and over more than a decade, he became one of the most decorated players in Real Madrid’s history, with 28 titles won, including 6 Champions League trophies, 6 Club World Cups, and 4 La Liga titles, among others. He was also awarded the Ballon d'Or in 2018, ending the dominance of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

When will Modric play his final game at the Bernabéu?

The Croatian will play his final game at the Santiago Bernabéu this Saturday against Real Sociedad, kicking off at 10:15 a.m. ET. It will be an emotional farewell for Madrid fans, who have followed Modric over 13 seasons filled with success. A special tribute is being prepared to honor him, alongside coach Carlo Ancelotti, who will also manage his final game before taking over as head coach of Brazil.

In his final season, Modric has set new records: he became the oldest player to wear the Madrid shirt, surpassing Ferenc Puskás, and has made more appearances than in any other season, with 56 matches played. Although he saw fewer minutes than in his peak years, he maintained a high level of performance, recording 4 goals and 9 assists.

Despite leaving Real Madrid, Modric is not thinking about retirement just yet. At 38 years old, he still dreams of playing in the 2026 World Cup with Croatia, which would be his fifth appearance in the tournament.

With his departure, one of the brightest chapters in the club’s history comes to a close. “I will always be a Madridista,” Modric said, making it clear that his bond with the club will remain eternal, beyond the farewell.