End of an Era? Real Madrid Reportedly Set to Let Luka Modric Leave as Free Agent

Real Madrid may be preparing to close the curtain on one of its most iconic eras, as reports from AS suggest that midfield maestro Luka Modric will be allowed to leave the club as a free agent this summer.

Despite Modric’s clear intention to retire at the Bernabéu, the club is reportedly not planning to offer the 39-year-old a new contract when his current deal expires at the end of the season.

The Croatian legend, who has spent over a decade dazzling fans with his vision, leadership, and technique, recently etched his name deeper into club history by becoming the oldest player to score for Real Madrid. He also ranks ninth in all-time appearances for the Spanish giants.

While Modric remains a fan favorite and a locker room leader, Madrid’s strategy seems increasingly focused on youth and transition. The midfield already boasts future stars like Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni—making a renewal for Modric a tough call in the bigger picture.

Opinion: Legends Deserve a Graceful Exit—Will Madrid Get It Right?

For many football romantics, seeing Luka Modric leave the Bernabéu without a proper sendoff feels like a heartbreak waiting to happen.

Here’s a player who didn’t just win trophies—he helped define a golden generation, from the La Decima to multiple Champions League triumphs. His Ballon d’Or in 2018 is proof of the global respect he commands.

But football is ruthless. Clubs evolve, and age, no matter how gracefully handled, catches up. Still, there’s something to be said about how legends exit. Real Madrid owe it to Modric to make his departure—if it’s truly happening—a celebration, not a silence.

Meanwhile, clubs in Qatar are already circling, sensing an opportunity to bring in not just a star, but a global ambassador of the game.

Modric’s potential exit might mark the end of an era, but his legacy at Madrid? Immortal.

As for Lucas Vazquez, his departure also looks increasingly likely, especially with rumors of Trent Alexander-Arnold arriving on a free. Madrid's summer reshuffle could be massive—and emotional.

What do you think—should Real Madrid let Modric go, or offer him one final season of glory?