Luka Modrić to Depart Real Madrid After Club World Cup, Concluding 13-Year Tenure

Real Madrid legend Luka Modrić has announced he will leave the club following the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, bringing an end to a distinguished 13-year career at the Santiago Bernabéu. The 39-year-old midfielder will play his final home match against Real Sociedad on Saturday, with the club planning a tribute to honor his contributions.

Modrić joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 for approximately €35 million. Since then, he has made nearly 600 appearances and secured a club-record 28 trophies, including six Champions League titles and four La Liga championships. His exceptional performance in the 2018 World Cup earned him the Ballon d’Or, breaking the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Despite expressing a desire to continue with Real Madrid, Modrić did not receive a contract extension offer. Reports suggest that incoming manager Xabi Alonso had advocated for his retention, but the club’s leadership opted not to renew his contract.

In a heartfelt message, Modrić stated, “The moment I never wanted to come has arrived, but that’s football, and in life, everything has a beginning and an end.” He expressed immense pride and gratitude for his time at the club, affirming that he will always be a “Madridista.”

Following the Club World Cup, speculation surrounds Modrić’s next move. Potential destinations include a return to the English Premier League or a stint in Major League Soccer.

Modrić’s departure marks the end of an era for Real Madrid, as the club transitions to a new generation of midfield talent, including Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham.