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Topics: Luka Modric, Real Madrid, Football, Xabi Alonso, Transfers
Ryan Smart
Topics: Luka Modric, Real Madrid, Football, Xabi Alonso, Transfers
Luka Modric has already decided on his next move after announcing his departure from Real Madrid, it has been reported.
The 39-year-old midfielder, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2018, confirmed on Thursday that he would be leaving the Spanish giants after the Club World Cup.
Modric's contract officially ends on June 30, but he will continue to play for the club in the latter stages of the Club World Cup - if Real reach that stage - in July.
Spanish outlet Marca initially reported earlier this week that the Croatian would remain at the Bernabeu for an additional season at the request of impending new manager Xabi Alonso.
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But Modric, a six-time Champions League winner, has decided to depart Real after 13-and-a-half years at the club.
In a video posted to Instagram, he said: "The moment has arrived. The moment I never wanted to come, but that's football, and in life everything has a beginning and an end.
"Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person. I'm proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history."
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However, despite turning 40 next year, Modric has no plans to retire from professional football, it is claimed.
Croatian outlet 24sata claim that the midfielder wants to play at the 2026 World Cup for his country, should they qualify - and wants to be in 'optimal form' for the tournament.
Jutarnji report that he has already received three 'lucrative offers' from clubs in Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the MLS, but is leaning towards a move to States in order to prepare himself for the competition, which is being held entirely in north America.
He would be following the lead of some of his generation's fellow elite players in making the MLS move, with Barcelona legends Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez all currently playing for Inter Miami.
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Last month, it was announced that Modric had become a minority co-owner of Championship side Swansea City, who last played in the Premier League in 2018.
The Croatian reportedly consulted Wales legend Gareth Bale over his decision, though fans hoping to see him grace the second tier of English football probably shouldn't get those hopes up too much.