Modric, farewell to Real Madrid: "Saturday the last match at the Bernabeu"

Luka Modric announces his farewell to Real Madrid after 13 years and 28 trophies. He will say goodbye to Los Blancos after the Club World Cup . The Croatian champion, 40 years old on September 9, 590 appearances and 43 goals, will play his last match in Spain against Real Sociedad on Saturday, May 24.

Modric: “Real Madrid changed my life”

The midfielder himself announced his failure to renew his contract with the club in a post on Instagram in which, under the most representative photos of his adventure - from his arrival in 2013 to his first Champions League win, from the Ballon d'Or to his first trophy in a white shirt - he sent a message to the club's fans. "Dear Madrid fans: the moment 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 Bernabeu . I arrived in 2012 with the illusion of wearing the shirt of the best team in the world and with the ambition of doing great things, but I could not imagine what would happen next. Playing for Real Madrid has changed my life as a footballer and as a person. I am 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 president Florentino Pérez , my teammates, the coaches and all the people who have helped me during this time."

Modric: “I will always be a Madridista”

In the post, Modric continues by describing the strongest emotions he has felt wearing the camiseta blanca . "In these years I have 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," the Croatian emphasizes, "I carry in my heart the affection of all Madridistas. I really don't know how to explain the special bond I have with you and how much I felt and still feel supported, respected and loved. I will never forget every ovation and all the gestures of affection you have shown me. I leave with a full heart. Full of pride, gratitude and indelible memories. And even if, after the Club World Cup," he concluded his long farewell letter, "I will no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Madridista. We will see each other again. Real Madrid will always be my home."