Saturday afternoon at the Santiago Bernabéu was filled with emotion as Luka Modrić and Carlo Ancelotti bid farewell to Real Madrid ahead of their summer departures. While Ancelotti leaves immediately, Modrić will stay until after the Club World Cup.

The match itself ended in a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad, with Kylian Mbappé scoring both goals, but the focus remained on the outgoing legends—including Lucas Vázquez, whose exit, though not yet official, is widely expected.

Post-match, Modrić and Ancelotti delivered heartfelt speeches that left few dry eyes in the stadium. Even Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez was visibly moved, as seen on RMTV’s broadcast. The emotional scenes were unsurprising given the strong bonds both men share with Pérez and the club.

Ancelotti’s next chapter is already set as he will take charge of Brazil’s national team in June, with a contract running through the 2026 World Cup. His departure marks the end of a highly successful second stint at Madrid.

Meanwhile, Modrić’s future remains uncertain. Though he will attract plenty of interest, no decision has been made yet. MLS rumours persist, with a potential reunion alongside former rivals like Messi, Suárez, and Busquets.
For now, the Bernabéu savored one last moment with two icons who shaped the club’s modern era.

Photo: Diego Souto/Getty Images