Why is Luka Modric leaving Real Madrid?

After a journey spanning nearly 13 years with Real Madrid, Luka Modrić is set to leave the club at the end of the campaign. The Croatian midfielder has been a mainstay at the club but will play his final La Liga game at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, bidding farewell to the fans. However, there is a surprising element to Modrić’s departure. According to reports, his future at Real Madrid had always been uncertain, as he was in the final year of his contract and no negotiations had taken place. 

Taking to social media to announce his departure, both Luka Modrić and Real Madrid shared posts simultaneously. The club’s statement confirmed that the player will leave the Spanish outfit following the Club World Cup. The statement read:

Real Madrid C. F. and our captain Luka Modrić have agreed to bring an end to his unforgettable time as a player at our club following the Club World Cup, which the team is preparing to play starting 18 June in the United States.

With a squad featuring promising youngsters like Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Arda Güler, playing time became increasingly limited for the Croatian midfielder. As Modrić approached the latter stages of his 30s, manager Carlo Ancelotti leaned towards giving the younger players more opportunities. Real Madrid face a significant challenge, as they must replace both Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić in the same transfer window.

What did Perez say about Luka Modric’s departure? 

The president of the club, Florentino Pérez, also acknowledged Modrić’s contributions over the years, stating that he will remain in the hearts of all Madridistas. He described Modrić as an exemplary and unique footballer who embodied the values of the club. Pérez added that the player’s legacy will endure forever. He said:

Luka Modrić will forever remain in the hearts of all madridistas as a unique an exemplary footballer who has always embodied the values of Real Madrid. His football has captured the imagination of madridismo and fans all over the world. His legacy will live on forever