Luka Modrić may not be finished with Real Madrid after his playing career ends. According to Diario AS, Florentino Pérez wants the Croatian legend to return to the club in a new role once he retires from football.
The report claims that Pérez has left the door open for Modrić to come back to Real Madrid and work inside the club structure after retirement. The idea is not for Modrić to return as a player, but as a symbolic and institutional figure who could help represent the values, history and identity of the club.
Modrić Could Choose His Own Role
According to AS journalist Tomás Roncero, Real Madrid would be ready to welcome Modrić back “with open arms” once he decides to end his playing career. The report suggests that Pérez would allow Modrić to choose the kind of role he wants inside the club.
This could mean an ambassadorial position, a sporting role, a youth-development role, or another internal position connected to Real Madrid’s football structure. Nothing has been officially confirmed yet, but the message from Madrid appears clear: Modrić still has a place at the Bernabéu.
A Real Madrid Legend Beyond the Pitch
Modrić left Real Madrid after one of the greatest careers in the club’s modern history. During his time in Madrid, he became one of the most decorated players ever to wear the white shirt and one of the defining midfielders of his generation.
For Pérez, bringing Modrić back after retirement would make emotional and strategic sense. Real Madrid have often kept legendary figures close to the club, using their experience, image and connection with fans to strengthen the institution from within.
Retirement Decision Still Not Official
Modrić is reportedly expected to make a final decision on his future after the 2026 World Cup. While retirement has been strongly discussed, there is still no official confirmation that he will stop playing immediately after the tournament.
That means any Real Madrid return would depend on the timing of his retirement and the role Modrić personally wants to take. For now, the idea remains a strong possibility rather than a completed move.
Why This Matters for Real Madrid
Modrić returning to Real Madrid would not be just a sentimental move. It would also help preserve the culture of one of the club’s most successful eras. Few players understand the pressure, standards and identity of Real Madrid better than him.
If Pérez completes this plan, Modrić could follow the path of other former legends who remained connected to the club after their playing careers. For Madrid fans, it would mean that even after retirement, one of their greatest icons may still continue his story at the Santiago Bernabéu.