Santiago Bernabéu experienced a night that was hard to forget last May 24. Real Madrid was eliminated from the Champions League after a tough 4-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain. But the result became secondary that day; Luka Modrić and Lucas Vázquez said goodbye to the club that shaped their lives.
The defeat was tough, but emotion outweighed the score. The stands, on their feet, paid tribute to two players who gave everything for more than a decade. Tears, applause, and hugs marked the end of an era.
Luka Modrić: The genius who made art in the midfield
Modrić arrived in 2012 and, since then, became synonymous with class. With his vision of the game and surgical precision, he was the conductor of one of the best teams in history. He won five Champions, three La Ligas, and was Ballon d'Or in 2018.
His style left a mark: talent and effort in balance, discreet, brilliant, he leaves with the respect of soccer and the heart of Madridism. The Croatian not only played, he taught. To the young, to his teammates, to the world, his legacy is unquestionable.
Lucas Vázquez: The soldier of the crest
Lucas represents another side of soccer. He wasn't a star, but he was indispensable. Trained in the club's youth academy, he moved up to the first team and never left, he was a winger, a full-back, a game-changer, a starter or a substitute, whatever was needed.
Every minute he played, he did it with his soul. His effort, his commitment, and his loyalty made him a very beloved player by the fans. He won every possible title and never complained, he simply delivered, always.
He doesn't leave as a media idol, but he does as an example of pure Madridism. One of those who build a team. One of those who add even in silence.
Florentino takes the step: End of an era and renewal
The tough defeat against PSG was the final blow. According to sources close to the club, Florentino Pérez has made a firm decision: it's time for renewal. The president believes a glorious era has ended and it's time to look to the future.
It won't be easy to replace players like Modrić or Lucas. But the club is already working on it. Young prospects, new leaders, deep changes, Real Madrid seeks to reinvent itself, as it has done so many times in its history.
The message is clear: respect for the past, but a firm step toward what's coming. Modrić and Lucas leave a void, yes. But they also leave a foundation of values that will serve as a guide for the new generation.