The match, played on Wednesday, was the Croatian legend's final appearance for Real Madrid after a remarkable 13-year tenure.

Modric, who featured in 597 matches and won 28 major trophies, including six Champions League titles, four La Liga crowns, and five Club World Cups, left the pitch to a heartfelt embrace from teammates and coach Xabi Alonso, as reported by Milannews.it.

The 39-year-old midfielder, visibly moved, reflected on his time at Real Madrid. "Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person," he said in a social media post. "I leave with a full heart, filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories."

Club president Florentino Perez echoed the sentiment, stating, "Luka Modric will remain forever in the hearts of all Madridistas as a unique and exemplary footballer. His legacy will live on forever."

With his Real Madrid chapter closed, Modric wasted no time securing his next move. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Modric signed a one-year contract with AC Milan, valid until June 30, 2026, with an option to extend for another year at a net salary of approximately 3.5 million euros per season, plus bonuses.

The deal, finalized shortly after the Club World Cup, sees the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner join the Rossoneri, who are eager to harness his experience and leadership. AC Milan's sporting director, Igli Tare, revealed Modric's enthusiasm for the move, saying, "The first question Luka asked me was: ‘Will we be a team built to win the championship?' He wants to be a star player from the start."

Modric's decision to join AC Milan, where he is a lifelong fan, adds a poetic touch to his next chapter. "His arrival is crucial for a group that needs players like him," Tare added, highlighting Modric's potential to instill a winning mentality as the Rossoneri aim to rebound from an eighth-place Serie A finish last season.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri, who recently returned for a second stint with AC Milan, confirmed the transfer, stating, "Modric will arrive in August. He is an extraordinary player."

Recent posts on X indicate Modric's eagerness to hit the ground running, with the midfielder reportedly planning to cut his vacation short to begin training with AC Milan in late July, ahead of their Serie A opener on August 23.

The Croatian captain, who turns 40 in September, aims to maintain peak fitness for the 2026 World Cup, a goal that drove his decision to stay in Europe's competitive leagues rather than move to Saudi Arabia or the MLS.

As AC Milan prepare to welcome their new star, Modric's move signals their ambition to restore former glories. With his unparalleled vision, technique, and trophy-laden resume, the Croatian maestro is poised to make an immediate impact in Serie A, proving that age is no barrier to greatness.

Luka Modric bids emotional farewell to Real Madrid, joins AC Milan in new chapter