Spanish
Madrid, Spain.– Luka Modric, one of the most emblematic footballers in the recent history of Real Madrid, announced this Thursday his departure from the club after twelve seasons wearing the white jersey. Through an emotional message published on his Instagram account, the Croatian midfielder confirmed that this Saturday he will play his last match at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.
“The moment has arrived. The moment I never wanted to come, but that's football, and in life everything has a beginning and an end…”, wrote Modric, in a text that quickly moved millions of fans and went viral on social media.
Modric arrived at Real Madrid in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur, and since then he became a key player in one of the most successful periods of the club. In his message, he gratefully recalled the titles won, the historic comebacks and the "magic nights at the Bernabéu" that marked his career as a merengue.
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“I am proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history,” said the Croatian, who especially thanked President Florentino Pérez, his teammates, coaches, and the technical staff who accompanied him throughout these years.
Modric, 38, leaves an indelible mark on the white club, with a record that includes five Champions League, three Leagues, two Copa del Rey titles, four Spanish Super Cups, four European Super Cups and five Club World Cups. In addition, in 2018 he was awarded the Ballon d'Or after leading Croatia to the World Cup final and being European champion with Real Madrid.
Beyond sporting achievements, the midfielder expressed that what marked him the most was the affection of the Real Madrid fans: “I really don't know how to explain the special connection I have with you and how supported, respected and loved I have felt and feel.”
Although his departure will be made official after the Club World Cup, Modric was firm in his white identity: “I will always be a madridista. We will see each other again. Real Madrid will always be my home. For life.”
Modric's farewell is shaping up to be one of the most emotional moments of the season's end for Real Madrid, who this Saturday prepares to pay tribute to a living legend of the club.
