Real Madrid has officially announced that captain Luka Modric will play his final LaLiga match for the club this weekend, bringing an end to a glorious 13-season career at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Spanish giants confirmed in a statement released on Thursday that they have reached an agreement with the 39-year-old Croatian midfielder to conclude his time at the club after the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States, which begins on June 18.
"Real Madrid C.F. and our captain Luka Modrić have agreed to end an unforgettable period as a player for our club at the end of the Club World Cup, which our team will play starting June 18 in the United States," the club statement read.
Modric, who joined Real Madrid in 2012, has established himself as one of the greatest midfielders in football history during his time in Spain. His impressive trophy haul includes a club-record 28 titles, while his individual brilliance was recognized with the prestigious Ballon d'Or award in 2018 – breaking the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite his age, Modric has remained an important figure for Carlo Ancelotti's side this season, featuring in 34 league matches, though starting only 16 of them as the club has begun transitioning to a new generation of midfield talent.
The club expressed their gratitude to the departing legend: "Real Madrid would like to express its gratitude and deep affection for the man who is already one of the greatest legends of our club and of world football."
Fans will have the opportunity to bid farewell to the midfield maestro this Saturday during Real Madrid's final LaLiga match of the season. "The Santiago Bernabéu will pay tribute to him this Saturday on the occasion of our team's final LaLiga match," the statement confirmed.
While the announcement confirms Modric's departure from Real Madrid, it does not specify whether the Croatian international plans to continue his playing career elsewhere or retire from professional football altogether.
Modric's final appearance in the famous white shirt at the Bernabéu is expected to be an emotional occasion for both the player and the supporters who have witnessed his extraordinary contribution to one of the most successful periods in the club's illustrious history.
