Luka Modric has extended his contract with Real Madrid, now set to expire on June 30, 2024. The news has brought immense joy to Los Blancos fans, who were relieved as Saudi Arabia came close to securing the signing of the midfielder.
Modric, who joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, has achieved extraordinary success with the club. He swiftly solidified his position as a crucial player and has remained a consistent starter ever since. Modric’s contributions have been instrumental in Real Madrid’s triumphs, which include securing 5 UCL titles and numerous other trophies.
After such a remarkably successful spell, no one would have blamed Luka Modric if he had chosen to walk away from Real Madrid. According to Fabrizio Romano, Modric received one of the largest salary proposals ever in soccer from Saudi Arabia.
Understand Luka Modrić received one of biggest salary proposals ever in football from Saudi. 🇸🇦
He decided to turn down the bid with the utmost respect. ⛔️
There’s only one reason: he wants play, fight and win again at the club of his life Real Madrid. ⚪️✨
Modrić, 2024. 🔒 pic.twitter.com/Gm42BtqBNl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2023
After successfully luring Karim Benzema earlier this month, Saudi Arabia was confident about securing Luka Modric as well. However, Modric declined the lucrative offer and chose to remain at Real Madrid. He expressed his motivation to play, fight, and win once again at the club of his life, Real Madrid, as the sole reason for his decision.
Despite turning 38 in September, Modric demonstrated tremendous hunger to continue playing at such a high level, distinguishing himself from other players of his age who often seek lower leagues for their final lucrative contracts. Modric has amassed an impressive tally of 488 appearances for Real Madrid.
Modric should set his sights on breaking into the Top 10 players with the most appearances for Madrid. Currently, he is 73 matches away from surpassing José Martínez Sánchez (Pirri), who holds the number 10 spot.
How Real Madrid midfield will set up with 38-year-old Luka Modric?
Despite being a legendary midfielder, Luka Modric may potentially experience a reduction in playing time in the upcoming season. The arrival of Jude Bellingham from Dortmund and the return of Brahim Diaz from AC Milan, has bolstered Real Madrid’s stacked midfield.
Carlo Ancelotti faces the challenging task of managing playing time and keeping all his stars satisfied in the upcoming season. Let’s explore how Real Madrid can potentially set up their team with Modric’s inclusion.
To maintain a familiar and successful approach, Ancelotti may opt to continue with the proven 4-4-2 formation. Valverde can be utilized as a backup left-winger. This setup would feature Valverde, Kroos, and Modric as the midfield trio, with either Tchoumeni or Camavinga occupying the fourth midfield position.
Another potential variation could be the 4-4-2 diamond formation, in which Modric, Brahim Diaz, or Ceballos could operate at the tip of the diamond. This setup would involve Kroos, Bellingham, and Tchoumeni comprising the four midfield positions in the diamond formation.
Ancelotti has the option to structure his midfield with a 4-3-3 formation. Modric and Bellingham can provide dynamic runs to drive the game forward. Tchoumeni, known for his defensive abilities, can serve as a destroyer in the midfield, or they can use Valverde to anchor the base of the midfield, providing stability and control.
Retaining Modric for another year is a triumph for Real Madrid, which benefits from his positive influence on and off the field.