1 day ago
4
597 games for Los Blancs
©TM/IMAGO
Luka Modrić’s unthinkable Real Madrid career has ended after Los Blancos were eliminated in the Club World Cup by PSG. There was no fairytale ending to the Croatian maestro’s 13-year tenure in Madrid as he prepares for the twilight years of his incredible career in Italy. No player in Madrid’s illustrious history has amassed more trophies than the 39-year-old (28) and Modrić departs an undisputed legend.
The midfielder pulled on the famous white shirt on 597 occasions, scoring 43 goals and providing 88 assists. Modrić’s legacy won’t be dominated by attacking numbers, but by the amount of trophies he won. Six Champions Leagues, four LaLiga titles and he famously collected the most prestigious individual award in history by winning the Ballon D’Or in 2018. Modrić will now join AC Milan on a one-year contract to continue playing past his 40th birthday and we’ve reflected on his incredible Real Madrid career.
Luka Modrić’s Real Madrid brilliance
Modrić’s status as a modern day legend at Madrid is unquestionable, despite his low-key and modest personality. After a fleeting cameo against PSG in his final game, Modrić was lavished in praise by boss Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard said: “He won't be remembered for today's game. He will be remembered for many good things, not these 25 minutes. He is a legend, a Real Madrid legend. It's been a pleasure." Modrić’s 28 trophies at Madrid is testament to his legacy and his longevity at the Santiago Bernabeu ranked him amongst the most loyal servants in football - illustrated below.
Moreover, Modrić’s 597 games for Madrid ranks him in the club’s top ten record appearance holders. The Croatian departed his homeland to join Tottenham Hotspur from Dinamo Zagreb in 2008 before moving to Spain in 2012 for €35 million. During his time at Spurs and Madrid, Modrić has played 521 games in the top five leagues, which ranks third across that time period. Only Antoine Griezmann and Daniel Parejo have accumulated more league games across the top five leagues in another nod to his longevity.
Luka Modrić’s next move at AC Milan
After a well-earned break, Modrić will join AC Milan with all aspects of the deal finalised between the player and club. Massimiliano Allegri, who led the Rossoneri to the Serie A title in 2011, has returned to the club to revive their fortunes. Allegri confirmed Modrić’s arrival earlier this week, stating: “Modrić will arrive in August. He is an extraordinary player”. After finishing eighth and losing in the Coppa Italia final to Bologna, AC Milan won’t compete in European competition but Modrić will be determined to help revive a sleeping giant back to former glories.
