The end of an era has arrived. Luka Modric, one of the best footballers in the history of Real Madrid and world football, will say goodbye to the Santiago Bernabeu after the match against Real Sociedad.

The Croatian midfielder will not have his contract renewed by the club, bringing to an end an unforgettable career that began in 2012 and will forever be etched in the memory of Madrid fans. The Club World Cup will be his last adventure in white.

Modric, who wanted to continue for one more season, will not be part of the club's new sporting project, which is committed to a generational renewal in midfield. At 39 years of age, the genius from Zadar has shown this past season that talent does not age, but Real Madrid has opted to look to the future without him.

Even so, his departure will not be a quiet one. The Bernabeu will be decked out to pay tribute to a unique footballer, who will be given a send-off with full honors in his last home game. He will share his farewell with Carlo Ancelotti, with whom he has won half of the Champions League titles on his CV.

Luka Modric's farewell letter

The time 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 game 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 to do great things, but I could not imagine what came next.Playing for Real Madrid 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 Perez, my teammates, coaches and all the people who have helped me during all this time.Throughout these years I have experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations and magical nights at the Bernabeu... We have won everything and I have been very happy. Very, very happy.But beyond the titles and victories, I carry in my heart the affection of all Madridistas. I really don't know how to explain the special connection I have with you and how supported, respected and loved I have felt and feel. I will never forget every ovation and all the gestures of affection you have shown me.I leave with my heart full. Full of pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories. And although, after the Club World Cup, 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. For life.Hala Madrid y Nada Mas.Luka Modric.

A legend with a golden record

During his 13 seasons at Real Madrid, Modric has won absolutely everything, with a legendary record, the most extensive in the history of the club: six Champions Leagues, four LaLiga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, five Spanish Super Cups, five European Super Cups, five Club World Cups and one Intercontinental Cup.

In addition, on an individual level, he was awarded the Ballon d'Or in 2018, breaking the Messi-Cristiano hegemony and being recognised as the best player in the world, largely thanks to his performances with both Real Madrid and the Croatian national team, whom he led to a historic World Cup final. He also has the MARCA Leyenda award, a distinction that this newspaper gives to truly extraordinary figures.

A style of football that thrilled the fans

Modric conquered the hearts of Madrid fans not only with titles, but also with his football. His ability to dominate matches with intelligence, technique, vision and excellent quality made him the team's beacon for more than a decade. His change of pace, his pinpoint passing, his goals from outside the area and his tireless defensive work made him a complete player. An artist with the ball who mixed beauty and effectiveness.

With his farewell, one of the most glorious chapters in Real Madrid's history is definitively closed: the midfield formed by Casemiro, Kroos and Modric. Together they dominated Europe, becoming the engine of the six Champions League titles won in the last decade. A unique and unrepeatable trident in the history of the club, admired by the whole world of football, which will be remembered as one of the best lines of all time.