Carlo Ancelotti heaped praise on Luka Modric, labelling him “a gift for football” after the veteran midfielder scored a sensational goal in Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Girona on Sunday.
The 39-year-old broke the deadlock in the 41st minute at the Santiago Bernabeu before Vinicius Junior sealed the win with a late goal. The result ensured Madrid kept pace with Barcelona at the top of the LaLiga standings.
Despite his age, Modric remains a valuable presence in the squad, even though he is no longer a guaranteed starter.
This season, he has featured in just nine league games from the beginning, with an additional 15 appearances coming off the bench.
“Modric is a gift for football,” Ancelotti said during his post-match press conference. “He should keep going for as long as he wants to. Whatever he does, he does well. Football, and we at Real Madrid, have been lucky to have him as a legend. He has been a gift, with his quality and his professionalism.”
Set to turn 40 in September, Modric is the oldest player to ever represent Real Madrid. With his contract expiring this summer, questions remain about his future, but his influence on the team remains undeniable.
🚨🇪🇸 GOAL | Real Madrid 1-0 Girona | Modric
WHAT A FANTASTIC GOAL FROM MODRIC !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!pic.twitter.com/a9DY3lJsFB
— Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) February 23, 2025
Ancelotti drew parallels between Modric and another legendary footballer he previously coached, AC Milan icon Paolo Maldini, who lifted the Champions League trophy at 38 before retiring two years later.
“I have an example of another player, Maldini, you can compare both of them,” Ancelotti added. “They’re fantastic role models. It isn’t a coincidence that they reached 40. Genes are a factor, but above all professionalism, seriousness, attitude.”
Reflecting on his goal, Modric said:”I don’t know if it’s one of my most spectacular [goals], but it was nice.
“It’s always special to score at the Bernabeu. The recent games show we’re in a good moment. We have to keep going. I think we can still grow as a team.”
Looking ahead, Real Madrid face a demanding run of games, starting with a Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg clash against Real Sociedad on Wednesday. That will be followed by a LaLiga encounter with Real Betis before a crucial Champions League round-of-16 tie against city rivals Atletico Madrid.