Luka Modric says he was treated 'differently' by Real Madrid president as legendary midfielder bids farewell ahead of AC Milan move

The Croatian midfielder issued an emotional goodbye to Madrid after playing his final game in the Club World Cup semi-final. Speaking to the club's media, the six-time Champions League winner reflected on the "victorious and unforgettable era," and expressed his lifelong gratitude to the fans. The 39-year-old also confessed that he felt he had a unique relationship with the president, who he felt had a sense of "special affection" towards him.

Modric leaves Madrid with a record 28 titles, making him the most successful player in Los Blancos' history. The player reflects on this but emphasises that even if the journey was long, it was an unforgettable one. The four-time La Liga winner further shares about his relationship with the president, calling Perez a very important person for him, and the president's tears during his farewell speech in the Spanish league's last game showed that the feeling shared was definitely mutual.

Speaking to the club's official media, Modric said: "He's been very important to me, first because he brought me here. Since then, he's always shown me special affection. Now I can say it: he treated me differently; he had a very special affection for me. And I think he showed it in my last match, because I'd never seen the president cry. When I saw the images, you realise that this person truly loves you. I will be eternally grateful for everything he's done for me and my family."

The Croatian is set to begin a new chapter in Italy with AC Milan. The midfielder signed a one-year contract until 2026 with the Serie A giants and will join the rest of the squad in August.