Luka Modrić ends a 13-year era at Real Madrid as the most decorated player in the club’s history, with 28 trophies and countless unforgettable moments. As he prepares to join AC Milan, his legacy as one of football’s greatest midfielders is forever secure.
Croatian international Luka Modrić has officially bid farewell to Real Madrid, closing the curtain on one of the most iconic careers in the club’s history.
After 13 unforgettable seasons, the 39-year-old midfielder leaves the Spanish giants as the most decorated player to ever wear the famous white shirt a symbol of sustained brilliance, leadership, and elegance on the pitch.
Modrić’s departure marks the end of an era not only for Real Madrid but for European football as a whole. Since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012 for a then-questioned €35 million fee, the midfield maestro evolved into a legend. A slow start gave way to complete control; he became the metronome of Madrid’s midfield, orchestrating play with grace, vision, and composure, forming a legendary trio alongside Toni Kroos and Casemiro a unit many regard as one of the finest in football history.
In his farewell message, Modrić didn’t hide his emotions. “An unforgettable, glorious, and victorious era has come to an end. Thinking back on everything I’ve achieved here fills me with joy, even though it’s now over. Real Madrid gave me everything in football, and I’ll be grateful for that for the rest of my life. I will always be a Real Madrid fan,” he said. It was a message soaked in pride, humility, and immense gratitude traits that defined his time in Spain.
His final appearance came just one day prior, in a painful 4–0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, hosted in the United States. Despite the result, fans across the globe recognized the symbolism: the last chapter of Modrić’s Real Madrid story written under the bright lights of a global stage. In 597 official matches for the club, he registered 43 goals and 95 assists but his impact cannot be measured by numbers alone. He was the beating heart of a golden generation.
Modrić’s legacy is written in silverware. Over 13 seasons, he amassed a staggering 28 major trophies: six UEFA Champions League titles, five UEFA Super Cups, five FIFA Club World Cups, one Intercontinental Cup, four La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey wins, and five Spanish Super Cups. No other player in Real Madrid’s 122-year history has matched that haul. Dani Carvajal, still active, follows closely with 27 titles, while Nacho Fernández, now playing in Saudi Arabia, has 26.
“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished,” Modrić said. “To be the player with the most titles at the greatest club in football history that’s something truly special.” He also acknowledged the role of his 2018 achievements with Croatia, when he led his nation to their first-ever FIFA World Cup final, winning the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best award, breaking a decade-long duopoly held by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Among the countless highlights of his time in Madrid, Modrić singled out the club’s 10th Champions League crown “La Décima” as the most symbolic. In the 2014 final at Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz, Madrid defeated Atlético Madrid 4–1 after extra time, in a match that redefined belief and resilience. “That night changed everything. It kickstarted a golden era for us. I always talk about La Décima not just because of the trophy, but the way we won it. It defines the Real Madrid spirit: never give up, fight until the last moment.”
He also reflected on his special bond with club president Florentino Pérez, who was visibly moved during Modrić’s final home appearance at the Santiago Bernabéu, a 2–0 win over Real Sociedad in the final round of the 2024/25 La Liga season. “I had never seen him cry before. When I watched the images after the match, I realised how deeply he cared about me not just as a player, but as a person. He believed in me from the very beginning. I’ll always be thankful to him and to the entire club for how they’ve treated me and my family.”
Off the pitch, Modrić’s leadership was equally admired. Quiet, but commanding; humble, but fiercely competitive. He led by example, inspired younger players, and left a standard of professionalism few can match. His departure signals the end of an era for Real Madrid’s legendary midfield, with Toni Kroos also recently retiring and Casemiro long gone to Manchester United.
Now, the next chapter begins. Modrić is expected to be unveiled shortly as a new signing for AC Milan, with manager Massimiliano Allegri already confirming the deal in a recent press conference. The Rossoneri are hoping the veteran’s experience can help lead a young squad back to domestic and European glory. While his days at the highest level may be numbered, Modrić’s passion and vision remain undimmed.
For Madridistas, however, Luka Modrić will always be more than just a player. He is a symbol of excellence, a silent leader who carried the club through its most successful modern era. His No. 10 shirt may soon be passed on, but his legacy will forever be etched into the walls of the Bernabéu and the hearts of millions.
