Real Madrid Target More New Players After Luka Modric Leaves

Luka Modric's departure must be sought by Real Madrid (Instagram/@realmadrid).

JAKARTA - Xabi Alonso said Real Madrid are still looking for new players to strengthen their squad next season after a 0-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 Club World Cup semifinals.

"We haven't talked about it during the 2025 Club World Cup, but from now on we are open to making improvements."

"We've always wanted to develop and there's still room for improvement," said the Real Madrid manager.

Apart from needing new power, Los Blancos need to find a suitable replacement after releasing Modric to AC Milan.

Luka Modric's brilliant career at Real Madrid did end in a crushing defeat, but the Croatian maestro's legacy far surpassed a single game.

Modric, 2018 Ballon d'Or winner and Real Madrid's most successful player, has played 597 games since his arrival from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012.

The 39-year-old has won 28 trophies with Real Madrid, including six Champions League titles.

"It's not the ending you want, it's a bitter end, but it won't be remembered for the game against PSG, but for other great matches."

"He is a world football legend and Real Madrid. He will be remembered for more good than the 25 minutes he played against PSG," said Alonso, who played with Modric while still in Real Madrid.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said Modric would leave a void.

"Modric has always received lively applause, not only from Madridista. He is a great player, a great team-mate. We will miss him," said the Belgian.

Luka Modric will join AC Milan after playing his final match for Madrid at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on Thursday, July 10, 2025, early morning WIB.

According to Rossoneri's new coach, Massimiliano Allegri, the veteran midfielder will arrive in Milan in August 2025.

Meanwhile, Luka Modric has bid farewell both to the club and Madridista on Real Madrid TV channel.