Croatian Luka Modric, Real Madrid player, announced on Thursday his departure from the club after a historic career filled with achievements and trophies.
Modric said in an official statement: “The time has come for a moment I never hoped for, but this is football, and everything in life has a beginning and an end. On Saturday, I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabeu.”
He added, “I arrived in 2012 with the desire to wear the shirt of the best team in the world and the ambition to achieve great things, but I could not have imagined what would happen next.”
He continued: “Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person. I felt proud to have been part of one of the most exciting periods in the club’s history.”
He added, “I would like to thank the club from the bottom of my heart, especially President Florentino Perez, my teammates, the coaches, and everyone who has helped me throughout these years. I have experienced unforgettable moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations, and magical nights at the Bernabeu. We won everything, and I was extremely happy.”
He continued, “But beyond the titles and victories, I also carry in my heart the love of all the Real Madrid fans. I don’t know how to describe how connected I am to you, and how much support, respect, and love I have felt and continue to feel. I will never forget every applause and every gesture of affection you have shown me.”
He concluded, “I leave with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. Although I won’t be wearing this shirt on the pitch after the Club World Cup, I will always be a Real Madrid fan.” The Croatian star joined Real Madrid on August 27, 2012, from Tottenham Hotspur for £30 million.
