Real Madrid, midfielder Luka Modric, has sent a warm message to Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets, who recently announced that he will leave the Catalan club in the summer.
The Spanish midfielder, who graduated from the club’s famed academy, announced that he would leave Camp Nou after 18 years when his contract expires in June.
During his time at the Catalan club, the 34-year-old made 719 senior appearances, winning 31 trophies, including three UEFA Champions League trophies and eight La Liga titles, among other honours.
Busquets also faced several legendary players of the game at Barcelona, one of who is veteran Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric. The Croatian is considered one of the best midfielders in his generation and apparently rates Busquests highly, given his effusive praise for the Spaniard after he learnt of his imminent exit.
Modric posted a heartfelt message for Busquets on Twitter that read:
“One of the best midfielders I’ve ever played against. It has been a pleasure.”
Uno de los mejores centrocampistas contra los que he jugado. Ha sido un placer. 🤝🤝 @5sergiob pic.twitter.com/0DgKB33t3c
— Luka Modrić (@lukamodric10) May 10, 2023
Modric faced Busquets on 33 occasions at club and international level, with the latter winning 16 of those encounters and losing 13. Nevertheless, both midfield maestros have been part of some memorable El Clasicos over the years.
This season alone, they have faced each other five times this season across competitions, with Barcelona beating Real Madrid in three of them.