Carlo Ancelotti hailed Luka Modric as “a gift to football” after the veteran midfielder was on target in Real Madrid's Copa del Rey win over Deportiva Minera.
Modric scored the fourth goal with a lovely curling finish as Los Blancos ran out 5-0 winners over their fourth-tier opponents to book their place in the last 16.
The 39-year-old made just his 11th start after making 26 appearances in all competitions this season.
Yet his impact and professionalism did not go unnoticed by Ancelotti.
“[Luka] is a gift for football and even more so for those who can enjoy it up close,” said the Madrid boss. “The fans, the players, the coach… for me it is a great gift.
“The way he prepares for these kinds of matches, as if it were a final. It is a very important example for our young people.
@LukaModric10#LaCopaMola pic.twitter.com/c6gNx3u1Ou
— Real Madrid CF(@realmadriden) January 6, 2025
“The atmosphere was really good for the players. They stayed with the fans to sign shirts and that made it a fantastic match.”
Modric's midfield partner Federico Valverde broke the deadlock at Estadio Municipal Cartagonova with his seventh goal of the campaign in all competitions.
The Uruguayan international scored after just four minutes and 46 seconds, making it the fastest goal in this season's Copa del Rey.
“I am happy to contribute goals to the team, but my job is different: to help, defend and assist as best I can,” said Valverde.
“I am happy that the coach continues to take me into account in every match, that he has confidence in me and that even though I am tired, I am always happy.”
Comments