Carlo Ancelotti Speaks About Luka Modric’s Future at Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti has urged Real Madrid to offer Luka Modric another contract extension, despite the Croatian midfielder approaching his 40th birthday. The Italian manager remains convinced that Modric continues to be an invaluable asset to Los Blancos and believes the veteran playmaker still has plenty to offer at the highest level.
Luka Modric’s Contract Situation at Real Madrid
Luka Modric, whose contract is set to expire in the summer, remains a key figure in Madrid’s squad. The Croatian legend was instrumental in Madrid’s commanding victory over Girona on Sunday, helping the team regain momentum in La Liga after a rough patch of form that saw them go three consecutive matches without a win.
Having joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, Luka Modric has accumulated nearly 600 appearances for the club. Over the years, he has solidified his status as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, winning an impressive four La Liga titles and six Champions League trophies.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Praise for Luka Modric: A ‘Gift to Football’
Since 2020, Luka Modric has been signing annual contract extensions, defying age and continuing to perform at an elite level. Carlo Ancelotti, who has worked with some of the game’s biggest legends, believes Luka Modric should remain at Real Madrid for another season, potentially extending his stay until 2025/26, marking his 14th campaign with the Spanish giants.
“He should continue as long as he wants. He does what he does very well. We have been lucky to have a legend with us. Football is a gift for his seriousness, quality, and professionalism,” Carlo Ancelotti stated after Madrid’s victory over Girona.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Experience with Veteran Players
Carlo Ancelotti is no stranger to managing players who have extended their careers well beyond the typical retirement age. During his tenure at AC Milan, he worked with legends such as Cafu and Alessandro Costacurta, who maintained peak performances deep into their 30s. One of the most notable examples was Paolo Maldini, who played for Milan for 25 seasons before finally retiring just weeks before turning 41.
Carlo Ancelotti sees many similarities between Luka Modric and Maldini in terms of their professionalism, dedication, and ability to maintain high performance levels well into their late 30s.
“I had another player who was 40 years old, who was Maldini,” Carlo Ancelotti remarked. “The two can be compared in terms of what a footballer has to be. They are fantastic examples. It is no coincidence that they have reached 40. Genetics matter, but so does commitment, attitude.”
Why Real Madrid Should Extend Luka Modric’s Contract
Luka Modric continues to prove his worth on the pitch, showing no signs of slowing down. His ability to control the tempo of a game, combined with his leadership and experience, makes him an invaluable figure in Real Madrid’s midfield. Even with younger players emerging in the squad, Modric’s influence remains irreplaceable.
Real Madrid have a history of keeping their legends until the very end of their careers, and Luka Modric deserves to be no exception. With Carlo Ancelotti backing his extension, it seems likely that Los Blancos will once again reward their veteran maestro with another deal.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Luka Modric and Real Madrid to see whether the club will heed Carlo Ancelotti’s advice and offer the Croatian icon yet another extension, keeping him at the Santiago Bernabéu for at least one more season.
