WE’VE NEVER SEEN FLORENTINO LIKE THIS! Modric and Ancelotti’s farewells crack the president at the Bernabéu

Two unforgettable legends of Real Madrid – Luka Modric and Carlo Ancelotti – bid their emotional farewells at the Santiago Bernabéu in a scene that left even the unshakable Florentino Pérez in tears. This was not just another end-of-season gesture; it was a historic night that marked the closure of two of the most decorated eras in the club’s storied history.

Carlo Ancelotti, the Italian maestro who led Real Madrid to multiple domestic and continental glories, is stepping down to take charge of the Brazilian national team. Meanwhile, Luka Modric, the Croatian magician whose boots have graced Madrid’s midfield for over a decade, has chosen to end his legendary spell with the club after 13 triumphant years.

As the final whistle blew in Real Madrid’s last home game of the season, the atmosphere turned from footballing festivity to heartfelt reverence. The stadium, packed to the rafters, fell silent as the ceremonies began. Modric and Ancelotti, both visibly emotional, were called to the center of the pitch, where a tribute video aired on the big screen, bringing tears to many eyes – including Pérez, known for his stern composure.

Ancelotti’s voice trembled as he took the microphone: “To coach this club is the greatest honour of my life. What a journey it has been. From our triumph in Lisbon to magical nights in Madrid – this has been unforgettable.”

The moment Modric was substituted in the closing minutes will remain etched in the hearts of Madridistas forever. The game paused, and both teams – in a rare show of respect – lined up to applaud the 39-year-old as he exited the pitch. Fans raised banners, flags, and chanted his name as if time itself had stopped.

Modric embraced Toni Kroos in an emotional hug, a symbol of a partnership that defined an era. Together, they orchestrated Real Madrid’s midfield like master conductors of a grand orchestra. The embrace said it all – respect, friendship, and the weight of a glorious chapter coming to an end.

Modric made his way to the sidelines where his family stood waiting. His children ran to him, and his wife wiped his tears as he whispered words of gratitude to the fans. “I didn’t want this moment to come… but the journey has been long, and it has been amazing,” Modric said, his voice cracking.

The Croatian maestro leaves behind a legacy that will be nearly impossible to replicate. With 591 appearances, 43 goals, and 28 trophies – including six Champions League titles – Modric’s name will forever shine in Madrid’s constellation of legends. Only four other players in history have matched his six European Cups.

President Florentino Pérez, often portrayed as cold and businesslike, broke down in public. As the camera zoomed in on him wiping away tears, the world saw a different side of the man who built the modern Real Madrid. For once, Pérez wasn’t the businessman or the politician. He was a fan – a grieving fan losing two of his most trusted warriors.

Ancelotti’s contribution was equally momentous. In over 350 matches across two spells, he delivered 15 trophies to the Spanish capital, making him the most successful manager in the club’s illustrious history. His cool demeanor, tactical genius, and fatherly approach to managing players earned him unmatched respect.

Though the last season ended without silverware – missing out on La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Champions League – his impact can’t be diminished. Ancelotti’s leadership brought stability, trust, and belief, especially during the club’s transition phases after the departures of legends like Ronaldo, Ramos, and Zidane.

Two massive banners stretched across the stands read: Gracias Don Carlo and Modric Eterno. They rippled in the air as fans sang songs of gratitude. The Bernabéu, so often a fortress of pressure and expectation, became a temple of love and nostalgia.

In a parting statement, Ancelotti said: “No one will forget Benzema’s hat-trick against PSG, Rodrygo’s miracle goals against Manchester City, or Joselu’s thunderous strike against Bayern. But what I will never forget is the love I received every single day I walked through Valdebebas.”

Though this farewell was about departures, the match itself saw a glimpse of the future. Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s newest galáctico, scored a brace in the 38th and 83rd minutes. The French superstar, now the league’s top scorer with 30 goals, showed why he’s considered the heir to Madrid’s throne.

But on this emotional night, even Mbappé’s brilliance took a backseat. All eyes remained on the two figures being honored – the general on the bench and the artist on the pitch.

Modric will still play in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, offering one final dance in the white shirt. But for most fans, this night was his true goodbye – a symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation.

The next chapter begins with Xabi Alonso, who is expected to take over managerial duties. A new era is on the horizon, but the echoes of Modric and Ancelotti will continue to reverberate through the halls of the Bernabéu for years to come.

Never before has Real Madrid said goodbye to two figures of such stature on the same night. And never before have we seen Florentino Pérez cracked open by emotion like this. The house he built is now saying farewell to two of its most cherished inhabitants.

This wasn’t just a goodbye. It was a reminder of what makes football magical – loyalty, greatness, and love that transcends the game.