Real Madrid has made an announcement regarding the contract extension of Luka Modrić, the 37-year-old Croatian midfielder. Modrić, who has been a crucial player for the club since 2012, has agreed to a one-year extension despite receiving a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club.
With 23 trophies, including five Champions League titles, Modrić has been an instrumental figure in Real Madrid’s success. Despite being the oldest outfield player in the club’s history, he remains a valuable asset to the team. Although he will face tough competition for playing time in the upcoming season, Modrić’s exceptional skills as a world-class midfielder will undoubtedly contribute to his ambition of adding more trophies to his collection.
Real Madrid stated, “During his impressive 11 seasons with us, he has participated in 488 games and achieved 23 trophies.” Modrić joined Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 and has since won five Champions League titles, three La Liga championships, and two Copas del Rey. In 2018, he was honored with the FIFA World Player of the Year award and was a two-time Ballon d’Or finalist.
As Modrić approaches his 38th birthday in September, he will face stiff competition for playing time at the Santiago Bernabeu. The recent signing of Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund for over €100 million, along with the presence of players like Kroos, Ceballos, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Fede Valverde, who may seek opportunities at other clubs, adds to the competition.
During his presentation, young talent Bellingham expressed his eagerness to learn from experienced players like Modrić and Kroos. Modrić, who finished as a runner-up with Croatia in the Nations League, has not yet confirmed whether he plans to retire from international football, as rumored, or continue playing until the 2024 European Championship next summer.