Carlo Ancelotti Praises Luka Modric as a ‘Gift for Football’ After Stunning Goal
In the world of football, there are moments that remind us why we love the game. One such moment occurred on Sunday when Real Madrid’s veteran midfielder, Luka Modric, at the age of 39, delivered a breathtaking goal that left fans and pundits alike in awe. Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory over Girona, and Modric’s performance was the highlight of the match.
Modric’s goal came in the 41st minute at the iconic Bernabéu stadium, setting the stage for a memorable win. Later in the game, Vinícius Júnior added a late second goal, ensuring that Real Madrid kept pace with their arch-rivals, Barcelona, at the top of the LaLiga table.
Despite not being a regular starter for Madrid this season, with just nine league starts and 15 substitute appearances, Modric remains a pivotal figure in the dressing room. His influence and experience are invaluable to the team, and his recent performance only solidified his status as a football legend.
After the match, Real Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, couldn’t help but sing Modric’s praises. “Modric is a gift for football,” Ancelotti declared during the post-match news conference. “He should keep going for as long as he wants to. Whatever he does, he does well. Football, and we at Real Madrid, have been lucky to have him as a legend. He has been a gift, with his quality and his professionalism.”
Modric, whose contract is set to expire this summer, is the oldest player ever to feature for Real Madrid. He will turn 40 in September this year, yet his performance on the pitch shows no signs of slowing down.
Ancelotti even drew comparisons between Modric and another football legend, Paolo Maldini, whom he coached at AC Milan. Maldini won the 2007 Champions League at the age of 38 and retired two years later. “I have an example of another player, Maldini, you can compare both of them,” Ancelotti said. “They’re fantastic role models. It isn’t a coincidence that they reached 40. Genes are a factor, but above all professionalism, seriousness, attitude.”
Reflecting on his goal, Modric told Real Madrid TV, “I don’t know if it’s one of my most spectacular [goals], but it was nice. It’s always special to score at the Bernabéu … The recent games show we’re in a good moment. We have to keep going. I think we can still grow as a team.”
Looking ahead, Real Madrid has a busy schedule. They are set to face Real Sociedad on Wednesday in their Copa del Rey semifinal first leg. Following that, they will visit Real Betis in LaLiga and then take on Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League round-of-16 clash.
In other team news, Ancelotti mentioned that defender David Alaba is in contention to start the upcoming game after playing 70 minutes against Girona, marking his first start in over a year.
- Real Madrid’s recent form is promising, with key players like Modric and Vinícius Júnior stepping up.
- Modric’s future remains uncertain with his contract expiring this summer, but his impact is undeniable.
- Upcoming fixtures include crucial matches in the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
Originally Written by: Alex Kirkland
