Luka Modric has officially brought an end to his glittering Real Madrid journey following the club’s 0-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final. 

Though the result did not reflect the glory of his tenure, the Croatian maestro leaves behind a legacy few can match.

The 39-year-old midfielder, who joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, took part in one final emotional interview with the club’s official media. 

With heartfelt words and visible emotion, Modric opened up about the journey that defined not just his career, but a golden era for the club.

“An unforgettable, glorious and winning stage has ended,” Modric began, looking back at his 12-year spell in Madrid. 

“What I have experienced gives me more joy. Remembering everything I have achieved here makes me very happy, even if it is over.”

The Croatian international went on to reflect on his personal growth both on and off the pitch. 

“At Real Madrid, I have grown as a player and as a person. Real Madrid has given me everything football-wise and for that I will be grateful for life. I’m always going to be a Madridista.”

Real Madrid’s most decorated player

🎙️🤍 @LukaModric10: “Voy a ser siempre madridista”. pic.twitter.com/1Q8Ku4A0WI

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) July 10, 2025

With 28 trophies to his name, Modric leaves as the most successful player in the history of Real Madrid.

His honours include six Champions League titles, a feat that has come to symbolise the dominance of the club during the past decade. 

For him, the significance of these achievements is only just beginning to sink in. “It has been a long journey, but unforgettable,” he said. 

“I’ve grown a lot as a player and as a person. I have another house outside my house, because Madrid and Spain are like my second home. 

“I’m very happy and I’m sure that with time I’ll be even more aware of what I’ve achieved, because I’m going to need some time to add up all the emotions and everything I’ve achieved here.”

Reflecting on his remarkable tally of titles, Modric admitted: “Hearing my numbers makes me happy and proud of what I have achieved. 

“Being the player who has won the most titles at the best club in the history of football is impressive.”

But it wasn’t just the silverware that mattered. For Modric, the affection of the fans is something he cherishes deeply. 

“There are also other things, such as the affection of the people. I always keep that because it’s something that no one can take away from you. 

“You can’t fool people, and they won’t love you just because you play for Real Madrid, but the affection they have given me is impressive. I never imagined it.”

Special relationship with Florentino Perez

Luka Modric leaves as a Real Madrid legend. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

Modric also took a moment to express his gratitude to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, revealing a touching bond between the two.

“He has been very important for me, first because he brought me here,” Modric said. “From that moment on, he has always shown me a special affection.”

The bond between the pair was evident during Modric’s final La Liga appearance at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Perez was seen in tears. “Now I can say it: he has treated me differently, he had a very special affection for me,” Modric continued. 

“And I think he has shown it in my last game, because I had never seen the president cry. When I have seen the images, you realise that this person really loves you. I will be eternally grateful for everything he has done for me and my family.”

As Modric departs, he leaves behind a legacy rooted in excellence, humility, and unmatched loyalty. “The dominance of the last 12 or 13 years began, which has been incredible, winning six Champions League in 10 years.

“I always mention the tenth because it was impressive, and the way we won it perfectly defines what Real Madrid is: never give up and believe until the end,” he concluded.