Modric challenges destiny and the future of Real Madrid

When most of his peers were settled in the commentary box or on the coaching bench, Luka Modric was still leaning over to make magical passes at the Bernabeu.

Luka Modric is not over yet.

At nearly 40, the Croatian midfielder is more than just a fixture in Real Madrid's squad - he is a living challenge to both the laws of nature and the philosophy of modern football.

When age is just a number

In the 2024/25 season, while people eagerly await the performances of Jude Bellingham or Rodrygo Goes, it is Modric who will set the rhythm for “Los Blancos”. With a passing accuracy of 91.7% - higher than his peak - the Croatian “artist” has not only maintained his form but also improved himself. The numbers do not lie, but they do not tell the whole story of the sophistication in each of his moves.

What is amazing is that in a Real Madrid midfield that has been ravaged by injuries – from Camavinga to Ceballos, from Tchouameni to Bellingham – Modric has stood as a lifeline. Not just stood, but shone. When Mallorca came to the Bernabeu with the intention of defending resolutely, it was the old man who broke the deadlock with vision and creativity that many young players can only dream of.

Modric's enduring presence poses a significant challenge for Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid's ambitious young coach. While Alonso wants to build a young, dynamic and disciplined squad, Modric is a symbol of a different era - an era where individual talent and creative freedom are highly valued.

Every time he enters the field, Modric makes a difference.

Alonso once declared: "I want a team that plays with organisation, control and flexibility." But is there any flexibility that can surpass Modric's magical ability to adapt?

While young midfielders struggle with complex tactics, the Croatian "old man" orchestrates the game with a simplicity that borders on genius. Each of his passes is not just a way to move the ball, but a message: football always has a place for those who understand its nature.

Real Madrid's dilemma

Real Madrid's transfer plans are putting the club in a dilemma. A move for young talent like Zubimendi or a reinforcement of the defence with Huijsen and Carreras is necessary for the future. But can Real afford to trade the present - where Modric is an irreplaceable piece of the puzzle?

In the modern world of football, where teams are constantly looking for youth and speed, it is easy to forget the value of experience and character. Modric is more than just a player, he is the bridge between the glorious past and the promising future of “Los Blancos”. When Real Madrid are in crisis, youth is not always the solution - sometimes they need the calmness and wisdom of someone who has been through countless battles.

According to recent reports, Modric is still being considered for a key role in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup - which could be his last tournament in white. But will it really be his last performance?

Will Real Madrid continue to trust Modric?

Football history is littered with wrong predictions about the "expiry dates" of stars. Pele was considered past his prime before the 1970 World Cup. Maldini was judged "too old" before continuing to play at a high level into his 40s. And now, just when people thought it was time for Modric to step aside, he has proven that football is not a game of numbers - it is an art of the soul.

Real Madrid are at a crossroads. The first is to continue their strategy of rejuvenating the squad - something that has brought them success in the past but has also left the club struggling when lacking leadership on the pitch.

The second path is to rely on Modric as a mental and technical fulcrum – a safe option but one that could hinder long-term development. The third – and perhaps wisest – path is to find a balance, letting Modric become a guide for the next generation, transmitting not only skills but also the Real Madrid spirit and character.

This decision will not only affect the next few seasons, but will also shape the culture of the club. Because the real question is not "How long can Modric play?" but "What kind of team does Real Madrid want to become?".

In an era where football is becoming increasingly mechanical, with data analysis and carefully calculated tactics, Modric is a reminder that on the pitch, the heart and mind are still more important than the feet. And that is perhaps the most valuable lesson this "old man" has left for Madrid and the football world.

Xabi Alonso and the Real Madrid board may be struggling with personnel issues. But one thing is certain: Modric has turned challenges into opportunities throughout his career. And perhaps that is his greatest legacy - not the number of titles or magical passes, but the lesson of resilience and undying passion.

Source: https://znews.vn/modric-thach-thuc-dinh-menh-va-ca-tuong-lai-real-madrid-post1553588.html