Luka Modrić has officially closed the chapter on a remarkable 12-year journey with Real Madrid.
The 39-year-old Croatian made his final appearance for the Spanish club during the Club World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night—a tough 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. But while the scoreline wasn’t in Madrid’s favor, it didn’t overshadow the outpouring of love and respect for a player who defined an era.
Modrić is now set to continue his career with AC Milan, but he leaves behind a legacy few can match. Since arriving from Tottenham in 2012, he’s become the most decorated player in Real Madrid history—597 appearances, 28 major trophies, and six Champions League titles to his name.
Manager Xabi Alonso, once Modrić’s teammate, spoke with heartfelt admiration after the match. “Sure, this isn’t how anyone wanted it to end—but Luka’s story isn’t written in one night. He’s a legend, not just here but in world football,” Alonso said. “People will remember the finals, the brilliance, the years of greatness—not tonight.”
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois echoed the sentiment, calling Modrić a one-of-a-kind presence in the locker room. “He’s more than a player—he’s family. And even fans from rival clubs respect him. That says everything.”
Back in 2018, Modrić made headlines around the world when he won the Ballon d’Or, breaking the decade-long hold Messi and Ronaldo had on the prize. That moment wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a symbol of how he quietly became one of the best to ever do it.
As he takes the next step in his career, one thing’s certain: Modrić leaves Madrid not just as a footballer—but as a legend whose legacy will echo for years to come.
