Luka Modric has always been one to surprise football fans — and his latest move is no exception.
After 13 glorious years with Real Madrid, where he became a club legend, Modric is preparing to turn a new page not just on the pitch but off it too.
Recently, news broke that the Croatian midfielder is stepping into football club ownership by buying a minority stake in Swansea City, a Championship club in Wales. This unexpected business move got fans buzzing and wondering what’s next for the veteran star.
Leaving Madrid After an Incredible Era
Last Thursday, Modric announced he would be leaving Real Madrid at the end of this season.
It marks the end of an era for a player who has won an astonishing 28 trophies with Los Blancos, including domestic titles, Champions League triumphs, and a memorable Ballon d’Or win in 2018 — the year he ended the long-standing Messi-Ronaldo duopoly.
As Madrid prepares to rebuild under Xabi Alonso and his coaching team, Modric’s departure leaves a huge gap both on and off the field.
A New Home and Business Venture in Wales
What really raised eyebrows was the revelation that Modric isn’t just leaving Spain to retire quietly.
Reports say he is buying a luxurious £1 million mansion in Swansea, in the picturesque Gower village of Three Crosses.
A local neighbor told The Sun, “We don’t usually get Galacticos in Swansea, so it was quite a surprise to see him here.
The house is fantastic and close to the beach. I’m sure he’ll enjoy the local pubs and exploring the area.”
The home reportedly comes with a pool table and is being bought from former Swansea midfielder Leon Britton.
Though Modric still owns property in Madrid, the Welsh base would put him close to the club he now partially owns and just a short drive from their training ground.
Playing and Owning: The Best of Both Worlds
Despite his move into club ownership, Modric has been clear that this won’t mark the immediate end of his playing days.
He’s keen to continue playing at a high level beyond this season.
The initial announcement stressed that his stake in Swansea City won’t interfere with his football career.
Fans took to social media with mixed reactions, calling the news “random” and “unexpected,” but the midfielder seems excited about the opportunity.
In a statement, Modric said, “Swansea has a strong identity, an incredible fanbase, and the ambition to compete at the highest level.
I hope to bring my experience to the club, support its growth, and help build an exciting future.”
Football Stars Combining Playing with Ownership
Modric isn’t the first top player to dive into club ownership while still active.
In 2024, Kylian Mbappé took a majority stake in French Ligue 2 side SM Caen, and N’Golo Kanté became chairman of Belgian third-tier club Royal Excelsior Virton after moving to Saudi Arabia in 2023.
According to LaLiga and FIFA regulations, players can own clubs in different leagues as long as they don’t compete against their own teams — a rule that keeps Modric’s dual role perfectly legal and manageable.
What’s Next for Modric and Swansea?
As Modric prepares for this new chapter, Swansea City fans will be watching closely.
His experience and status could bring fresh energy and ambition to the club, potentially sparking a new era in Welsh football.
Meanwhile, Modric himself looks set to enjoy both a new home life by the sea and the chance to shape the future of a club he believes in — all while continuing to do what he loves on the pitch.