Luka Modrić to Leave Real Madrid After 13 Glorious Years, Will Miss Club World Cup

Published on May 22, 2025

Real Madrid legend Luka Modrić has officially announced he will leave the club at the end of the current season, drawing the curtain on one of the most successful eras in the club’s history. The 38-year-old midfielder will not feature in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, signaling a definitive end to his iconic spell in Madrid.


In a heartfelt social media post, Modrić wrote:

“The moment has arrived. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life, everything has a beginning and an end. On Saturday, I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabéu.”


A Decorated Real Madrid Career

Modrić joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 and has since become the most decorated player in the club’s illustrious history. Over 13 seasons, he amassed 28 trophies, including:

    •    6 UEFA Champions League titles

    •    4 La Liga championships

    •    6 FIFA Club World Cup titles

    •    Multiple Copa del Rey and Supercopa victories

In total, Modrić made 590 appearances, scored 43 goals, and provided 95 assists, earning global recognition as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.


Farewell at the Bernabéu

His final appearance for the club will be in Real Madrid’s La Liga match against Real Sociedad on May 24, 2025. A special ceremony is expected to honor his contributions at the Santiago Bernabéu, where fans will say goodbye to a true club icon.


No Club World Cup Participation

Contrary to initial expectations, Modrić will not be part of Real Madrid’s squad for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off in the United States on June 14. His decision to step aside clears the path for a younger generation as the club transitions into a new era under Carlo Ancelotti.


What’s Next for Modrić?

While the Croatian midfielder hasn’t revealed his next destination, rumors suggest interest from Serie A clubs and Major League Soccer (MLS). His decision will likely depend on whether he chooses to continue playing or take a step into coaching or ambassadorship.

 


A Real Madrid Statement

The club issued a tribute in response to Modrić’s announcement:

“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.”

As Luka Modrić prepares for his final bow at the Bernabéu, the footballing world celebrates a player whose intelligence, elegance, and leadership defined an era.

 

 

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