Real Madrid announced on its official website on Thursday that its captain, Croatia legendary international midfielder Luka Modrić, will leave the club when his contract expires this summer after participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, ending his 13-year career at Santiago Bernabeu.

According to Real Madrid's official statement, the club is grateful and proud of Modrić's selfless dedication to the team and the honours he has won over the years, and wishes him all the best in the future.

In addition, Spanish media outlet Relevo's renowned Italian transfer journalist Matteo Moretto, revealed that Modrić actually did not intend to leave the club, and was even willing to extend his contract with the club for another year. However, because Real Madrid President Florentino Perez hopes to give young players more opportunities, Los Blancos eventually had to make the difficult decision to part ways with the veteran.

At the same time, he also said that he had never heard that Modric would join Inter Miami or Swansea City, the latter, a club in which he owns shares.

After the news of his impending departure was announced, Modrić did not forget to explain through his personal official social media account, he wrote: "Dear Madridistas, the time has come. I never thought this moment would come, but this is football, everything in life has a beginning and an end... On Saturday I will play my last game at Santiago Bernabeu."

"In 2012, I came here with the hope of wearing the jersey of the best team in the world and the ambition to achieve great things, but I couldn't imagine what would happen next. Playing for Real Madrid has changed my life as a football player and a person."

"I am proud to be part of one of the most successful eras of the greatest club in history. I would like to sincerely thank the club, especially President Florentino Perez, my teammates, coaches and everyone who has helped me during this time."

"Over the years, I have experienced incredible moments, seemingly impossible reversals, finals, celebrations and in the Bernabeu. "It was a magical night... We won everything and I'm very happy. Very, very happy."

"But more than titles and victories, I carry in my heart the love of all Real Madrid fans. I really don't know how to explain the special connection I have with you, the support, respect and love I have felt and will continue to feel. I will never forget every cheer and gesture of kindness you have shown me."

"I will leave with joy. Full of pride, gratitude and unforgettable memories. Although I will not appear on the pitch wearing this jersey after the Club World Cup, I will always be a Real Madrid fan."

"We will meet again. Real Madrid will always be my home, for life. Hala Madrid! Sincerely, Luka Modrić."

After publishing his farewell letter, his current and former teammates including Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Cristiano Ronaldo, Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Isco, Robbie Keane and more left messages to wish Modrić well.

About Luka Modrić

Now 39 years old, Modrić, affectionately called "Modi" by Chinese fans, was born in Zadar, Croatia on September 9, 1985. He is 1.72 meters tall and plays as a midfielder. His elder cousin Mark Viduka is a former Australia international center forward who played for Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Newcastle United.

Modrić, who has loved football since childhood, insisted on his dream despite the hardships of experiencing war when he was young. He joined the youth academy of his hometown club Zadar at the age of 11 and transferred to the Dinamo Zagreb youth academy at the age of 16.

After being promoted to the first-team in the summer of 2003, Modrić was immediately loaned-out to Zrinjski Mostar.

The following summer, Modrić was loaned-out to Inter Zaprešić, during which he helped the club qualify for the UEFA Cup with his outstanding performances.

After returning to the club following the end of his loan spell in the summer of 2005, Modrić officially became a key player in Dinamo Zagreb's first-team.

During his three-year stint at Dinamo Zagreb, Modrić won the Croatian HNL three times, the Croatian Cup twice and the Croatian Super Cup once, and attracted the attention of Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona.

In July 2008, Modrić joined Tottenham Hotspur for £16.5 million.

At first, Modrić was regarded as a flop because he had not yet fully adapted to the rhythm of the Premier League, but later he gradually became one of the best midfielders in the Spurs and even the entire league with his world-class performances.

In August 2012, Modrić joined Real Madrid for £30 million.

At first, Modrić's performances was not appreciated because of the fierce competition for position with Xabi Alonso and Sami Khedira, but he still quietly worked hard and became one of the best midfielders in Europe and even the world.

During his 13-year spell at Santiago Bernabeu, Modrić made 590 appearances for Los Blancos in all competitions, scoring 43 goals and providing 95 assists. He also won six Champions Leagues, five UEFA Super Cups, five FIFA Club World Cups, five Supercopa de España, four La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey and one FIFA Intercontinental Cup.