Luka Modric has officially confirmed he will leave Real Madrid this summer after 13 years at the club in an emotional message to the club’s supporters.
The 39-year-old’s contract is set to expire next month and there had been suggestions that he may remain at the club for another season under Real’s new manager, most likely to be Xabi Alonso.
In a post addressed to Real fans, Modric said: “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 Bernabéu.”
He added: “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.
“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.”
’Proud’ Modric leaves Real as legend after ‘winning everything’
Modric arrived from Tottenham in 2012 for a fee of €35 million and has gone onto become a Real Madrid legend despite a difficult start to his time at the club, which saw him voted the worst signing of the season by Marca.
Having won 28 trophies at the club, Modric was announced as the club’s captain last summer and he has still been a regular figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s team this season.
“I arrived in 2012 with the hope of wearing the shirt of the best team in the world and the ambition to do great things, but I couldn’t have imagined what came next,” Modric continued in his post.
“Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person. I’m proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.
“I want to sincerely thank the club, especially President Florentino Pérez, my teammates, coaches, and everyone who has helped me throughout this time.
“Over the years, I’ve experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabéu… We’ve won everything, and I’ve been very happy. Very, very happy.”
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