Carlo Ancelotti praised Luka Modric and described him as a “gift for football” after the experienced midfielder scored a sensational goal on Sunday at Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory against Girona.
The 39-year-old broke Sackgasse in the 41st minute in Santiago Bernabeu before Vinicius Junior sealed the victory with a late goal. The result ensured that Madrid with Barcelona at the top of the Laliga classification.
Despite his age, Modric remains a valuable presence in the squad, although he is no longer a guaranteed starter.
This season he introduced only nine league games from the start, with another 15 appearances coming from the bank.
“Modric is a gift for football,” said Ancelotti during his press conference after the game. “He should continue as long as he wants. Whatever he does, he does it well. Football and we at Real Madrid were lucky enough to have him as a legend. He was a gift with its quality and professionalism. “
Modric is the oldest player who has ever represents Real Madrid. After his contract has expired this summer, there are questions about his future, but his influence on the team remains undeniable.
🚨🇪🇸 Goal | Real Madrid 1-0 Girona | Modric
What a fantastic goal of Modric !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!pic.twitter.com/a9dy3ljsfb
– Tekkers foot (@tekkersfoot) February 23, 2025
Ancelotti pulled parallels between Modric and another legendary footballer, whom he previously trained, AC Milan Icon Paolo Maldini, who raised the Champions League Trophy at the age of 38 before retiring two years later.
“I have an example of another player, Maldini, they can both compare,” added Ancelotti. “They are fantastic role models. It is no coincidence that you have reached 40. Genes are a factor, but above all professionalism, seriousness, attitude. “
Modric reflected his goal and said: “I don’t know if it is one of my most spectacular (goals), but it was nice.
“There is always something special to score in Bernabeu. The latest games shows that we are in a good moment. We have to go on. I think we can still grow as a team. “
With a view to the future, Real Madrid is facing a demanding games of games, starting with a Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad on Wednesday. This is followed by a laliga encounter with Real Betis before a decisive round of the 16th round against the rival of City, Atletico Madrid, the 16th round of the Champions League.
