After 13 unforgettable years, Luka Modric stepped onto the pitch at Real Madrid’s iconic Bernabeu stadium for what would be his final home game.
It was a moment filled with emotion and nostalgia as fans and teammates alike prepared to say goodbye to one of the club’s greatest midfield maestros.
Modric’s Last Dance in Madrid
The match itself saw Real Madrid finish their LaLiga season with a solid 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad.
Kylian Mbappe shined with two goals, even though he missed a penalty, but all eyes were on Modric.
This game marked his 591st appearance for Los Blancos — and his last at home in front of the roaring Madrid crowd.
With the game nearing its end, the referee paused play in the 87th minute.
The stadium erupted as both teams lined up to give Modric a heartfelt standing ovation and a guard of honour.
The 38-year-old Croatian was then subbed off for the young prospect Chema Andres, marking the end of an era on the pitch.
Family Moments After the Final Whistle
After the final whistle, Modric was spotted embracing his family — his wife Vanja Bosnic and their children Ivano, Ema, and Sofia.
Clearly touched by the outpouring of love, he spoke openly to the press about the bittersweet moment.
He told AS, “This is the moment I never wanted to face. It’s been a long journey.
I want to thank the club, president Florentino Perez, all the coaches, my teammates, and everyone who supported me along the way. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
He added a heartfelt message to his family, “Without them, none of this would have been possible.
We’ve shared incredible victories and unforgettable moments, but the greatest trophy I have ever won is your love.”
Before signing off, Modric shared a quote that perfectly summed up his feelings: “Don’t cry because it ended, smile because it happened. Hala Madrid and nothing else.”
Celebrating a Trophy-Laden Career
Modric’s career at Real Madrid is nothing short of legendary.
During his time with the club, he lifted six Champions League trophies, four LaLiga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, and six Club World Cups.
His legacy as one of the best midfielders in the world is firmly cemented.
Modric will still represent Real Madrid in the upcoming Club World Cup this summer before officially moving on from the club.
A Farewell for Coach Ancelotti Too
The match was not only special for Modric. It also marked Carlo Ancelotti’s last game in charge of Real Madrid before he moves on to manage the Brazil national team.
Ancelotti reflected on his time with the club, saying, “It’s not easy to find the words today.
It has been an honour and a pleasure to coach this incredible team.”
He thanked president Florentino Perez for the experience and recalled unforgettable moments from his tenure — like Benzema’s hat-trick against PSG, Rodrygo’s two goals versus Manchester City, and of course, Modric’s brilliant assists.
Ancelotti concluded with emotion, “I will never forget the time spent here.
Hala Madrid — I love you all with all my heart.”