Luka Modrić: “I am sure that I can play every 3 days. Ancelotti decides… but I really feel good so I have no problem playing 1, 2, 3 or more games in a row”. “I feel good and I’m always ready to help. That’s it”. source
Luka Modrić On Game time at Real Madrid
Luka Modric, one of the greatest football players of all time, is proving that age is just a number. At 39 years old, the Croatian midfielder is still playing for Real Madrid, one of the biggest football clubs in the world. Despite his age, Modric believes he can still handle the demands of playing regularly. Recently, he said, “I am sure that I can play every three days… I feel good and I’m always ready to help.” These words show how determined he is to keep contributing to his team.
The Challenge of Less Playing Time
Modric’s role at Real Madrid has changed this season. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has been careful about how often he plays, giving him fewer minutes on the pitch to manage his fitness. This season, Modric has started only a handful of games in La Liga, with most of his appearances coming as a substitute. While this approach might help him stay fresh, it hasn’t been easy for Modric. According to Croatia’s national team coach Zlatko Dalic, Modric isn’t happy with playing less and wants to be more involved.
Proving He’s Still Got It
Even though some people think his age might slow him down, Modric continues to prove them wrong. When playing for Croatia during international matches, he has shown that he can still perform at the highest level. He played full matches on back-to-back days and was one of the best players on the field. These performances show that Modric’s fitness and skill are still world-class.
Even Ancelotti has praised Modric’s ability. After a recent game where Modric played all 90 minutes in a tough win against Rayo Vallecano, Ancelotti said, “He finished tired, like everyone else, but he’s in good shape.” The coach also mentioned how important Modric is in big games, especially when paired with younger players like Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Why Modric Is Still So Valuable
Modric isn’t just valuable because of his fitness; it’s also about how smart he is on the field. He knows where to be and what to do at the right moments. His passing is precise, and he helps control the game when things get tough. Even though younger players like Eduardo Camavinga and Tchouaméni are rising stars, Modric’s experience and understanding of the game make him irreplaceable in key moments.
The Emotional Side of His Journey
For someone who has won six Champions League titles and countless other trophies with Real Madrid, it must be hard for Modric to accept a smaller role. Ancelotti understands this and called it “complicated” to leave such a talented player on the bench. “He doesn’t seem like he is 39,” Ancelotti said earlier this season after Modric scored a crucial goal against Sevilla.
What’s Next for Luka?
As Real Madrid competes in important matches in La Liga and Europe, there will be more debates about how much Modric should play. While Ancelotti needs to think about the future of the team by giving younger players more time, Modric’s hunger to compete might force him to rely on the veteran more often.
For Modric, football isn’t just a job—it’s his passion. He loves the game and wants to keep playing as long as he can contribute. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, one thing is clear: Luka Modric still has what it takes to make a difference for Real Madrid as they chase more trophies this season.
