Luka Modrić, the legendary midfielder for Real Madrid, will conclude his illustrious career with the club following their participation in the upcoming Club World Cup. The 39-year-old Croatian international has been a pivotal figure for Real Madrid since joining in 2012, transforming both his life and career as a footballer. Modrić’s last game at the Santiago Bernabéu came on Saturday, on the LaLiga season-ending match against Real Sociedad.
In his thirteen seasons with the club, Modrić has been key in securing 28 trophies. Most impressively, he led the team to three straight UEFA Champions League titles from 2015-2018. His very first move from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for about 35 million euros (39.50 million) proved an instant return on investment. He truly found a home and deepened his roots in the starting lineup during coach Zinedine Zidane’s tenure, where he became the team’s focal point.
A Legacy of Success
Real Madrid’s commitment to Modrić has been evident from the start of his time at the club. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in leading the Authority to historic achievements. It’s a streak that includes their long-awaited 10th Champions League crown, won in his second season. Real Madrid celebrating Modric’s arrival on board with the team in 2012. Yet he has served faithfully and has been a major architect of what is arguably our history’s greatest era. In the thirteen seasons that he has patrolled our area, he has captured 28 trophies.
It’s safe to say that his influence on the pitch has contributed to Modrić’s legendary status of one of the most decorated players in football history. He is still one of only five players to have won six European Cups. On top of it all, he now has the record for most titles in Real Madrid’s illustrious 123-year history.
Modrić’s accolades include the prestigious Best FIFA Men’s Player award and the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year in 2018, marking a peak in his career that coincided with his team’s achievements.
Emotional Farewell
Now, as Modrić looks toward a future beyond Real Madrid, the Croatian international made it clear he’ll look back fondly on his time at Madrid. He reflected on his journey since arriving in 2012, stating, “I arrived in 2012 with the illusion of wearing the shirt of the best team in the world and with the ambition to do great things, but I couldn’t imagine what came next.” Still, for all the drama, his love for the team is clear when he said, “Real Madrid will always be my home for the rest of my life.”
The midfielder acknowledged the bittersweet nature of his departure, saying, “The time has come. 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 Bernabeu.”
The Impact of Modrić
Modrić’s influence extends beyond individual accolades. He has significantly shaped Real Madrid’s identity over the past decade. More than his vision, passing ability and leadership have inspired generations of players and fans alike. “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person,” he remarked during a recent interview.
With Club World Cup behind him, Modrić is poised to start new chapter. He departs with a truly indelible legacy, having accomplished this feat at one of football’s most storied and illustrious clubs. His contributions to Real Madrid, in terms of their quantity as well as their quality, are legendary. They’ve established a high bar at which generations to come will be aiming.
Leave a Reply