In an emotional farewell, Luka Modric played his final home match for Real Madrid, marking the end of an era after 13 legendary years at the club.
The Bernabéu witnessed a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad in their last La Liga fixture, with Kylian Mbappé netting twice—though he also missed a penalty. But the night belonged to Modric, who made his 591st and final home appearance for Los Blancos.
The match paused in the 87th minute as both teams formed a guard of honor, applauding the Croatian maestro as he was substituted for young midfielder Chema Andrés. After the final whistle, Modric was joined on the pitch by his wife, Vanja Bosnić, and their three children, Ivano, Ema, and Sofia, in a touching family moment.
“The moment I never wanted to face has arrived,” Modric told AS, fighting back tears. “It’s been an unforgettable journey. I want to thank the club, President Florentino Pérez, every coach, teammate, and everyone who supported me. Most of all, my family—none of this would have been possible without them.”
Reflecting on his legacy, he added: “We’ve won so much, but the greatest trophy of all is your love. I’ll leave you with a saying I hold dear: ‘Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.’ Hala Madrid—and nothing more.”
His longtime teammate Toni Kroos, who recently retired, was in the stands, sharing a heartfelt embrace with Modric.
During his illustrious Madrid career, the Ballon d’Or winner lifted six Champions League titles, four La Liga trophies, two Copa del Rey crowns, and six Club World Cups. While his official departure is set for this summer, he will still represent Real in the upcoming Club World Cup.
The match also marked Carlo Ancelotti’s last game as Real Madrid manager before taking charge of Brazil. The Italian boss, visibly moved, said: “Today is not an easy day. It’s been an honor to lead this club. Thank you, Florentino Pérez, for this incredible journey. Moments like Benzema’s PSG hat-trick, Rodrygo’s heroics against City, and Modric’s magic will live forever in our hearts.”
As the curtain falls on Modric’s Bernabéu chapter, Madridistas worldwide will forever cherish the legacy of a true midfield maestro.
