Luka Modrić to Play Final Match at Santiago Bernabéu as Tributes Pour In

Luka Modrić is set to play his final match at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, May 24, when Real Madrid faces Real Sociedad, bringing an end to one of the most decorated and beloved careers in the club’s storied history. The Croatian maestro, who has worn the white shirt for over a decade, will be honored in front of a packed home crowd as fans and fellow athletes celebrate his legacy.

👑 A Farewell Fit for a Legend

Modrić, now 38, is expected to receive a standing ovation, special ceremony, and commemorative video tribute before and after the match. The moment marks the end of an era at Real Madrid, where he has defined the midfield with elegance, intelligence, and relentless work ethic.

• Joined Real Madrid: 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur
  
• Appearances: 530+ matches
  
• Trophies won:
  
  • 5× UEFA Champions League
    
  • 3× La Liga
    
  • 2× Copa del Rey
    
  • Ballon d’Or: 2018
    

“Luka is a once in a generation player. His humility, leadership, and footballing brain have been a gift to Madridistas everywhere,” said Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.

🎾 Sporting Tributes from Nadal, Alcaraz, and Beyond

Modrić’s impact has transcended football, with tributes arriving from across the sporting world. Fellow Spaniards and tennis icons Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz were among the first to honor him.

• Rafael Nadal: “A champion in every sense on the field and as a person. Gracias, Luka.”
  
• Carlos Alcaraz: “A role model of professionalism and passion. Legend.”
  
• Other tributes: From Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, Toni Kroos, and top Croatian athletes
  

Fans are expected to unveil a choreographed mosaic reading “Gracias, Luka” before kickoff, with banners and chants echoing throughout the Bernabéu.

🧠 A Legacy That Redefined the Modern Midfielder

Modrić has long been considered one of the most influential midfielders of the 21st century. Known for his composure under pressure, vision, and long range distribution, he bridged eras at Madrid, seamlessly linking the BBC and current generation squads.

• Ballon d’Or winner in 2018 the only player to break the Messi Ronaldo duopoly
  
• Elevated Real Madrid’s midfield from 2012 through multiple rebuilds
  
• Revered for his leadership, modesty, and ability to control tempo on the biggest stages
  

His career has inspired young players globally, many of whom credit Modrić’s playing style as a blueprint for the modern deep lying playmaker.

📰 Final Thoughts

Luka Modrić’s final appearance at the Santiago Bernabéu will be more than a farewell it will be a celebration of one of football’s purest artists. From Champions League triumphs to Ballon d’Or brilliance, he leaves behind not just silverware, but a legacy defined by grace, class, and greatness.