Luka Modric officially leaves Real Madrid after 13 years

It is true that Luka Modric will leave the Madrid team after finishing the journey to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup, at the latest in mid-July. After 13 years of attachment and reaping many glories in the Real Madrid shirt, Modric feels that it is time to say goodbye to the Royal team.

Luka Modric chính thức chia tay Real Madrid sau 13 năm - Ảnh 1. — Luka Modric's youth is associated with Real Madrid

Modric joined Los Blancos in the summer of 2012 from Tottenham and has become the club's most decorated player with a total of 28 team titles. Modric even beat superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to win the 2018 Ballon d'Or, largely thanks to his legendary performances for Croatia at the World Cup that year.

Luka Modric chính thức chia tay Real Madrid sau 13 năm - Ảnh 2. — Modric is the most successful player in Real Madrid's 123-year history

Real Madrid had offered Modric a one-year contract extension but he decided not to. It is not clear whether the talented 39-year-old midfielder will retire or continue to pursue his football career, but Modric is likely to carry out his previous statement that he wants to retire at Madrid.

Luka Modric chính thức chia tay Real Madrid sau 13 năm - Ảnh 3. — Modric - Best Player in Europe 2018

He will bid farewell to Madrid fans in the final match of the La Liga season when Real take on Sociedad this weekend at the Bernabeu. Real Madrid's official website announced that Modric will travel with the team to the United States to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup in mid-June before the two parties terminate their contract four weeks later.

In a letter shared on his personal Instagram page, Modric wrote:

Dear Real Madrid fans,

This moment has come. A 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.

I came here in 2012 hoping to play for the best team in the world and achieve great things, but I could not have imagined 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 sincerely thank the club, especially the president Florentino Pérez, my teammates, the coach and everyone who has helped me during this time. I have experienced incredible moments, unbelievable comebacks, finals, celebrations and magical nights at the Bernabeu... We have won everything and I am very happy. Very, very happy.

Beyond the titles and the victories, I carry in my heart the affection of all Real Madrid fans. I really don't know how to explain the special bond I have with you, the feeling of knowing that I am supported, respected and loved. I will never forget every applause and every gesture of love that you have shown me.

I leave with a heart full of pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories. Although after the Club World Cup I will not wear this shirt again, I will always be a Real Madrid fan.

We will meet again. Real Madrid will always be my home. For life.

Hala Madrid.

Luka Modric.

On Real Madrid's homepage, president Florentino Perez wrote: 'Luka Modric will forever remain in the hearts of Real Madrid fans as a unique and exemplary player who has always represented the values of Real Madrid. His football has captivated Real Madrid fans and fans around the world. His legacy will live on forever.'