Modrić is just the start: Real Madrid’s golden era icons forced out after Club World Cup
With just a couple of weeks at the helm, Xabi Alonso led Real Madrid to the semifinals of the FIFA Club World Cup. However, his team was unable to stand up to the most in-form side in world football right now — reigning Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.
The defeat to Luis Enrique’s squad marked the end of Real Madrid’s run in the tournament, and with it, the end of an era for several iconic figures at the club. The first name that comes to mind is Luka Modrić. The Croatian midfielder, who will turn 40 in September, is set to continue his career at AC Milan. But he’s not the only one leaving.
Lucas Vázquez, another longtime Madridista, also played his final game for the club following the elimination. The winger-turned-right-back has amassed over 400 appearances in a Real Madrid jersey, winning four LaLiga titles and five Champions League trophies, among several other honors.
In the most recent campaign, Vázquez featured in 51 matches, serving as the go-to replacement for Dani Carvajal during his injury spell under Carlo Ancelotti. With the arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold and the return of Carvajal, Xabi Alonso gave little playing time to Vázquez. He came off the bench in Madrid’s tournament opener against Al Hilal and made a late substitute appearance in the semifinal defeat to PSG — a symbolic farewell.
The next step in his career remains uncertain. At 34 years old, Vázquez will become a free agent, giving him the opportunity to explore various offers as he continues his professional career. His initial intention is to remain in European football, though offers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and MLS are expected to reach his representatives in the coming weeks.