A Legend Says Goodbye
After 13 seasons and 28 titles, Luka Modric is preparing to bid farewell to the Santiago Bernabéu. His name is etched in the heart of every Madridista, and his legacy is unshakable. From the very first day he stepped onto that pitch, to this emotional final bow, Modric has defined an era.
13 Glorious Seasons
Modric joined Real Madrid in 2012 and was once doubted for his price tag and place in the squad. Fast forward to today, and he’s considered one of the best midfielders to have ever played the game. His vision, grace, and control shaped Madrid’s midfield in their golden years.
28 Trophies and Countless Memories
From La Liga titles to Champions League triumphs, Club World Cups, and Super Cups—Modric has won it all. His contributions weren’t just in numbers but in the magic moments: game-winning passes, long-range goals, and unstoppable plays.
The Emotional Farewell Letter
Modric’s Personal Message to Fans
On Friday night, Luka Modric dropped a bombshell. In a heartfelt letter, he wrote:
“The time has come. The time 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 Bernabéu.”
A Reflection on His Journey
His words struck a chord. Fans flooded social media with tributes and shared personal memories. It was more than just a goodbye; it was the closing of a chapter that changed Real Madrid forever.
The Final La Liga Match at Home
Date, Time & Significance
The farewell match takes place on Saturday, May 24, at 4:15 p.m. at the Santiago Bernabéu against Real Sociedad. It’s the last La Liga fixture of the season and marks Modric’s final appearance at home in white.
Ancelotti’s Final Match Too?
While the spotlight is on Modric, it’s also Carlo Ancelotti’s last La Liga game before taking over as Brazil’s national coach. That’s two monumental goodbyes in one evening.
Modric Starts, So Does Lucas Vázquez
A Sentimental Starting XI
Real Madrid lined up with a squad filled with emotion and significance. Modric starts, as does another potential leaver, Lucas Vázquez. The midfield is stacked with fan favorites like Valverde and Ceballos.
Notable Substitutes and Absences
Jesús Vallejo, whose contract expires after the Club World Cup, starts on the bench. Notably missing are stalwarts like Toni Kroos and Antonio Rüdiger, possibly being rested.
What’s Next for Modric?
Club World Cup in the USA
The Last Dance in White
Although Saturday marks Modric’s final game at the Bernabéu, it’s not his last for Real Madrid. He will join the squad for the Club World Cup in the USA, from June 15 to July 13, in what will be his actual swan song.
Real Madrid’s Fixtures
Madrid is set to face international opponents, offering one last grand stage for Modric to showcase his brilliance in white.
Modric’s Legacy at Real Madrid
From Unwanted to Undeniable
Back in 2012, critics called him a poor signing. In 2018, he won the Ballon d’Or, breaking Messi and Ronaldo’s decade-long monopoly. He silenced the doubters and became an all-time great.
Fans’ Love and Loyalty
Whether at the Bernabéu or across continents, Modric’s name is sung with pride. He didn’t just win trophies—he won hearts.
Real Sociedad’s Role in the Farewell Fixture
A Rotated Lineup
Absence of Remiro, Zubimendi, and Oyarzabal
Real Sociedad arrives with a significantly rotated squad. Key figures like goalkeeper Álex Remiro, midfielder Martín Zubimendi, and captain Mikel Oyarzabal are absent from the XI.
Real Sociedad’s Youth Take Center Stage
This opens the door for emerging talents like Aramburu, Mariezkurrena, and Jon Martín, giving them a chance to impress on one of football’s biggest stages.
Imanol Alguacil’s Final Game?
Managerial Uncertainty
Rumors swirl that Imanol Alguacil could also be stepping down as Real Sociedad’s manager. If true, this fixture becomes a double farewell.
End of a Chapter for La Real
While Madrid bids goodbye to a legend, Sociedad might be quietly ending a managerial era of its own.
The Match Preview and Lineups
Real Madrid XI: Stars and Sentiment
Lunin, Lucas Vázquez, Tchouaméni, Asencio, Fran García, Modric, Valverde, Ceballos, Arda Güler, Brahim Díaz, and Kylian Mbappé.
Mbappé, chasing the Golden Boot, leads the front line in what might also be one of his final games before a potential move.
Real Sociedad XI: Future-Focused Squad
Marrero, Aramburu, Jon Martín, Pacheco, Ahien Muñoz, Turrientes, Sucic, Pablo Marín, Take Kubo, Arkaitz Mariezkurrena, and Sergio Gómez.
The young guns get a chance to shine, and maybe spoil the party.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember in Madrid
Luka Modric’s farewell at the Bernabéu isn’t just a game—it’s a celebration of a legacy. Thirteen years of excellence, passion, and class come to an end in front of 80,000 fans who will never forget what he gave them. And while the final whistle may blow, the memories will echo forever through the halls of the Bernabéu.
FAQs
1. When is Luka Modric’s last home game for Real Madrid?
Modric’s final home appearance is on Saturday, May 24, against Real Sociedad at 4:15 p.m.
2. Will Modric play again for Real Madrid after this game?
Yes, he’ll participate in the Club World Cup in the USA between June 15 and July 13.
3. Who else is rumored to leave Real Madrid?
Lucas Vázquez and Jesús Vallejo may also be leaving, while Ancelotti will depart for Brazil.
4. Why is Real Sociedad playing a rotated lineup?
Manager Imanol Alguacil is resting key players like Remiro, Zubimendi, and Oyarzabal.
5. How many titles has Luka Modric won at Real Madrid?
He has won 28 major trophies, including La Liga, Champions League, and Club World Cups.