Carlo Ancelotti has claimed that he expects Luka Modric to retire at Real Madrid, amidst speculations over his future due to his contract situation.
Speaking to the media ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga encounter against Sevilla (h/t Daily Mail), manager Carlo Ancelotti weighed in on the topic of the future of midfield mainstay Luka Modric.
The 36-year-old is in the final two months of his contract with the club. While there have been reports of negotiations taking place between the club and the player, a definitive update on his situation and future is yet to arrive.
It has given way to speculations about Modric potentially leaving Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer. Juventus, for one, are interested in signing the veteran star on a Bosman deal. The Croatian international himself refused to get drawn into talks earlier this week, insisting that he wants to focus on finishing the season strongly first.
However, Ancelotti has now opined on the matter, claiming that Modric will stay at Real Madrid and see out his playing career at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Italian tactician also likened the midfielder to former AC Milan captain and legend Paolo Maldini.
Carlo Ancelotti confirms: “Luka Modrić will finish his career here at Real Madrid. I don’t know when but it will happen – this is the idea of the club and Luka”. ⭐️?? #RealMadrid
“Modrić won't have problems to renew the contract – I compare him to Paolo Maldini”. pic.twitter.com/5ZR0cmtDpd
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 16, 2022
“Luka Modric will finish his career here at Real Madrid. I don’t know when but it will happen – this is the idea of the club and Luka. won’t have problems to renew the contract – I compare him to Paolo Maldini,” the Real Madrid manager said.
Modric signed for Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012. The midfielder endured a torrid debut season in Spain and was termed the worst signing of the season by Spanish media at the time. Since then, though, the Croatian international turned things around spectacularly.
Modric has won four Champions League trophies during his time at Real Madrid and played a key role in those triumphs. He has once again been a key performer for Los Blancos this term under Ancelotti, as they look on track to win the La Liga title while they have also made it to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Modric has made 428 appearances for the Merengues thus far. In his 37 matches this term, the midfield maestro has contributed three goals and nine assists. Despite his age, the ex-Tottenham man continues to be a key player for Real Madrid. And an extension should only be a formality at this point.
