Real Madrid has reportedly refused to accept a request made by their incoming manager, Xabi Alonso. Alonso wanted veteran midfielder Luka Modric to stay with the club, but the team decided not to keep him.

According to Spanish outlet Diario AS, Alonso believed that keeping Modric would help the team. However, the club chose to go in a different direction and did not agree with his suggestion.

Modric will play his final La Liga match for Real Madrid on Saturday. The match will be against Real Sociedad, marking the end of his league journey with the club.

Although Modric is still an important figure, the 39-year-old will officially leave Real Madrid after their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.

The Croatian star joined Real Madrid in 2012 after leaving English club Tottenham Hotspur. Since then, he has been a key player for the team.

During his time at the club, Modric has won 28 trophies. His achievements include six UEFA Champions League titles and four Spanish league trophies. He also won the Ballon d’Or in 2018.

As news of his departure spreads, many past and current Real Madrid players have already shared kind messages and tributes to Modric for his time at the club.

Even though he is leaving Real Madrid, Modric is expected to continue playing for Croatia. He may even play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.