Luka Modrić, the Croatian midfield legend and Real Madrid’s most decorated player, sent shockwaves through the soccer world by announcing his departure from the club after the FIFA club’s World Cup in June 2025, ending a glorious 13-year era. As reported by The Times of India, the 39-year-old will play his final La Liga match at the Santiago Bernabéu against Real Sociedad on May 24, 2025, before potentially taking center stage at MetLife Stadium for the Club World Cup. With 590 appearances, 43 goals, and a record 28 trophies, Modrić’s exit is a historic moment. Nuzpost dives into his legacy, the buzz around his farewell, and his bold next steps.
A Heartfelt Bernabéu Goodbye
Modrić confirmed his exit via Instagram, writing, “The moment I never wanted has come. Saturday will be my last match at the Bernabéu.” His contract, extended until June 30, 2025, allows him to compete in the Club World Cup (June 18–July 13), with New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium—a venue known for global events like Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour—as a likely stage for his final Real Madrid matches. Real Madrid’s statement called him “one of the biggest legends in world football,” highlighting his 28 titles, including six Champions Leagues, four La Liga crowns, and two Copas del Rey.
Despite fewer starts this season under Carlo Ancelotti, Modrić set a record as Real’s oldest goalscorer at 39 years and 116 days, netting in a 2-1 win over Valencia. His 34 La Liga appearances in 2024-25, with two goals and six assists, showcased his enduring brilliance, though Real trailed Barcelona in the standings. The Times of India noted his 590 appearances rank ninth in club history, with 95 assists, cementing his status as a midfield maestro.
MetLife Stadium’s Global Spotlight
The FIFA Club World Cup offers a grand stage for Modrić’s farewell, with MetLife’s 80,000-capacity arena poised to host Real Madrid’s group-stage opener against Al Hilal on June 18. A deep run could extend to the July 13 final, giving fans a chance to see Modrić’s magic in a venue synonymous with spectacle. His Instagram post vowed lifelong loyalty: “Even after the Club World Cup, I’ll always be a Madrid fan.” Real Madrid plans a heartfelt tribute during Saturday’s Bernabéu match, with fans expected to pack the stadium, per The Hindu.
X post highlighted Modrić earning a standing ovation from Villarreal fans earlier this season, reflecting his universal respect. Club president Florentino Pérez lauded his embodiment of Real’s values, saying, “His legacy is eternal.” The MetLife matches promise an emotional crescendo, with fans eager to see if Modrić can add one last trophy to his haul.
A Journey of Triumph
Modrić’s path from war-torn Zadar, Croatia, to global stardom is the stuff of legend. His autobiography My Game recounts playing football amidst air raids, leading to stints at Dinamo Zagreb and Tottenham before joining Real Madrid in 2012 for €35 million. Initially voted the club’s worst signing, he defied critics, winning the 2018 Ballon d’Or—the first to break the Messi-Ronaldo stranglehold since 2007. His six Champions League titles and Croatia’s 2018 World Cup final run, where he earned the Golden Ball, define his greatness, per Sky Sports.
This season, Modrić adapted to a substitute role as Ancelotti favored a younger midfield with Aurélien Tchouaméni, Fede Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga. Yet, his curling goal against Sevilla in 2024 proved his timeless skill. The Times of India reported his 43 goals and 95 assists, but his leadership and vision made him indispensable.
Modrić’s Next Chapter
Far from retiring, Modrić is embracing new ventures. On April 14, 2025, he became a part-owner of Swansea City, aiming to elevate the Championship club with his £56.8 million net worth, earned through a £7.5 million salary and Nike deals, per The Times of India. His wife, Vanja Bosnic, a key figure in his 2012 transfer, supports his ambitions. Speculation about playing in Saudi Arabia or the MLS swirls, with Modrić telling Reuters he’s not ready to retire and may continue with Croatia’s record 186 caps. An X post noted talks with incoming coach Xabi Alonso, but Real’s shift to a dynamic midfield sealed his exit.
A Legacy That Transcends
Modrić’s departure, alongside Ancelotti’s move to Brazil’s national team, signals a new era for Real Madrid. Sky Sports called him an “exemplary professional,” while his praise for India’s Sunil Chhetri in 2024 showed his humility. As MetLife Stadium prepares to host his potential final bow, Modrić’s legacy as a game-changer endures, with fans and analysts alike awaiting his next move.
Nuzpost will follow Modrić’s Club World Cup journey and future career updates.
