Luka Modric announces his departure from Real Madrid after the Club World Cup

 Veteran Croatian playmaker Luka Modrić announced on Thursday that he will leave Real Madrid after the Club World Cup, scheduled for June and July.

The 39-year-old said in an Instagram post, "On Saturday, I will play my last game at the Santiago Bernabéu," when Real Madrid hosts Real Sociedad in the 38th and final round of the Spanish league.

Modrić has played for Real Madrid since 2012, when he joined from Tottenham Hotspur. He has since become one of the best players in the club's history, winning every possible title with the club, most notably four La Liga titles and six Champions Leagues, a record he shares with current teammate Dani Carvajal, former teammates Toni Kroos and Nacho, and Real Madrid legend of the 1950s and 1960s, Paco Gento.

Modric continued in his farewell post, "I leave with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. Although I won't be wearing this shirt on the pitch after the Club World Cup, I will always be a Real Madrid fan."

The Croatian has made nearly 600 appearances for the club since joining from Tottenham.

Modric faced difficulties at the beginning of his career with Real Madrid after a transfer for approximately €35 million ($40 million), but he quickly adapted to his new team and became one of the best midfielders in the world, on his way to winning the 2018 Ballon d'Or for the best player in recognition of his performances with his club and his country, which reached the final of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Modric said, "Throughout these years, I have experienced unforgettable moments: comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations, and magical evenings at the Bernabéu. We won everything, and I was very happy. I was very, very happy."