Modric announces Real Madrid’s departure 

Real Madrid’s midfielder Luka Modric said Thursday he would leave the Spanish giants after the Club World Cup this summer.

Luka Modric has shared a letter to Real Madrid fans following the announcement of his departure at the end of the season. The 39-year-old will play his final match at the Santiago Bernabeu this weekend, before leaving officially after the Club World Cup this summer.

The Croatian has played nearly 600 games for Real Madrid since joining from Tottenham in 2012. In 13 years with the Madrid outfit, he has conquered 28 titles, winning six Champions League and four La Liga titles among other trophies.

Modric struggled at the start of his Madrid career after a €35m move, but quickly found his footing and developed into one of the world’s best midfielders. Modric won the Ballon d’Or in 2018 for his performances with Madrid and also for his country, as Croatia finished as runners-up at the World Cup in Russia.

Modric’s letter:

“Dear Madrid fans, the time has come. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and Everything in life has a start and an end… On Saturday, I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabeu. I arrived in 2012 with the desire to wear the shirt of the best team in the world and with the ambition to do big things, but I couldn’t imagine what came next.

“Playing at Real Madrid changed my life as a football player and as a person. I feel proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history. I want to thank the club from the bottom of my heart, especially the president Florentino Perez, my teammates, coaches and all the people who have helped me during all this time.

“Throughout these years I’ve experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations and magical nights at the Bernabeu… We won everything and I was very happy. Very very happy. But beyond the titles and victories, I carry in my heart the affection of all Madrid fans.

“I really don’t know how to explain the special connection I have with you and how supported, respected and loved I have felt and feel. I will never forget each ovation and all the gestures of affection you have shown me. I’m leaving with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories.

“And even though, after the Club World Cup, I’m no longer going to wear this shirt on the field, I’ll always be a Madrid fan.”