After more than a decade at the heart of Real Madrid’s midfield, Luka Modric has finally said goodbye.
The Croatian legend officially ends his time with the club following the expiration of his contract, closing one of the most iconic chapters in the club’s history.
Now 39, Modric isn’t hanging up his boots just yet—he’s preparing for a new challenge in Italy with Serie A giants AC Milan.
A Trophy-Laden Legacy in Madrid
Modric leaves behind a glittering legacy that will be hard to top.
Since arriving at the Bernabéu in 2012, he’s lifted an astonishing six Champions League trophies, four LaLiga titles, and the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
His impact at Madrid wasn’t just about numbers—it was about consistency, leadership, and clutch performances on the biggest stages.
With 597 appearances under his belt, he departs as the most decorated player in the club’s history.
It’s not just the silverware that cements his status—it’s the love and respect he earned from fans and teammates alike.
Saying Goodbye After Club World Cup Exit
Modric’s final match for Madrid came somewhat unexpectedly.
He had been part of the team’s journey in the Club World Cup, but that came to a crushing halt with a 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals.
While the exit was disappointing, it marked the end of an era—and a moment for reflection.
After the match, Real Madrid released a heartfelt interview with Modric, where he opened up about what the club has meant to him.
“Madrid Gave Me Everything”
Modric didn’t hold back when speaking about his emotional farewell.
“An unforgettable, glorious and winning stage has ended,” he said.
“What I have experienced gives me more joy. I’ve grown as a player and as a person.
Real Madrid has given me everything football-wise, and for that I will be grateful for life.”
He added that Spain had become his second home and said he’d always be a Madridista at heart.
Perhaps most touching was his gratitude for the fans.
“The affection they have given me is impressive,” he said.
“You can’t fool people—they won’t love you just because you wear the shirt.
The love they’ve shown me is something I will carry forever.”
Farewell Embrace with Xabi Alonso
As he left the pitch for the last time in Madrid white, Modric was greeted by a warm embrace from interim manager and former teammate Xabi Alonso.
It was a quiet but powerful moment, symbolizing the respect he earned throughout his career.
New Club, New Role at Swansea
As if joining AC Milan wasn’t enough, Modric is also entering club ownership.
He’s taken on a minority stake in Swansea City, who currently play in the English Championship.
That puts him in the company of a growing group of footballers who are taking on business roles while still active on the pitch.
Following the Footsteps of Football’s New Investors
Modric isn’t the first to double as a player and club investor.
In 2024, Kylian Mbappé bought an 80% stake in French club SM Caen.
Before that, N’Golo Kanté became chairman of Belgian side Royal Excelsior Virton after moving to Saudi Arabia.
Even Gareth Bale is exploring the idea of investing in Cardiff City—ironically, one of Swansea’s biggest rivals.
A Bittersweet End, but a Bright Future
While fans will miss seeing Modric pulling the strings at the Bernabéu, his journey is far from over.
A fresh start at AC Milan and a venture into football ownership mark a new phase for one of the game’s most beloved players.
Modric’s Madrid era may be over, but his legacy is etched in history—and his next chapter is already underway.