‘You wrote history’ – Kylian Mbappe’s heartfelt tribute to Luka Modric as Real Madrid legend prepares for emotional final home game

Real Madrid legend Modric announced on Thursday that he would depart from the club this summer, calling curtains on a historic 13-year stint during which he won as many as six Champions Leagues, the Ballon d'Or in 2018, and became the oldest player to ever feature for the Spanish giants. Following his announcement, his teammate and long-time international nemesis, Mbappe, shared a heartfelt tribute on his social media accounts.

Taking to his Instagram, Mbappe wrote: “Brate, I was lucky enough to be able to play and share the locker room with you this season. I saw closer what GREATNESS really means... Before being one of the best players of all time, you are a wonderful person. You wrote the history of the best club in the world for more than a decade and won everything. But you won something / that has no price: the respect and the admiration of the world. Thank you for everything LEGEND.”

Modric signed for Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 and was voted as the worst signing of the season by Spanish publication MARCA. However, he produced some unforgettable moments and was the epitome of consistency throughout his career, aging like a fine wine and showcasing his longevity at the highest level. Modric will have one more trophy to add to his collection when Madrid participate in the revamped Club World Cup next month. The Croatian has won 28 titles at the club and would leave as the most decorated player in club's history.

The 39-year-old will receive a deserved farewell from the Madrid faithful at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, May 24, when Los Blancos welcome Real Sociedad for their final game of the season. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti will also receive a farewell as he'll be joining the Brazil national team, while Lucas Vázquez is also expected to be given a worthy reception.