Carlo Ancelotti described Luka Modric as a “gift of football” after his spectacular goal in Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Girona in the Santiago Bernabeu.
Modric, Ballon d'Or winner in 2018, scored Madrid's opener and checked a loop statement from a corner with his chest before he offered a sublime long-distance volley that offered in the upper corner in the 41st minute.
The 39-year-old, who has lifted 28 trophies since he joined the Spanish giants in 2012, will no longer have a contract at the end of the season.
In his press conference after the game, Ancelotti said that Modric should leave the club on its own conditions and compared the lifespan of the midfielder with one of his former players – AC Milan and Italy Great Paolo Maldini.
“Modric is a gift for football. He has to stay as long as he wants. What he does, he does very well. We were lucky to have a legend with us,” Ancelotti said reporters.
“Football has received a gift for its seriousness, quality and professionalism.
“I still had a 40-year-old player who was Maldini. The two can be compared to what a football player should be. These are fantastic examples. It is no coincidence that they have reached 40. Genetics is important, but also dedication, attitude . “
@Mrancelotti: “Modrić is a gift for football.” Press conference RM Play
– Real Madrid CF (@Realmadriden) 23 February 2025
Madrid's victory raised them to 54 points after 25 games and broke a three-game Winless Run.
The side of Ancelotti is right with Barcelona at the top of Laliga, but trail on the counting head. Atletico Madrid is third with 53 points.
The Italian manager said he was satisfied with the performance of his team against Girona, even though the shortage of the level they showed in a 3-1 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League Knock-Out Phase Playoffs on Wednesday.
“It often happens that when you drive a game well and you score no more than 1-0, you can get a draw,” he added.
“They had the chance to be right in the event of a counterattack, after a corner. The second goal killed the game. It could have been done earlier, but the team played well.
“It was not easy to repeat the dedication of Wednesday's game, but with this schedule I liked the attitude. Even if it was not at the level of the match against City.”
Real Next Face Real Sociedad In the first stage of a Copa del Rey Semi-Final draw on Wednesday, before he travels to Real Betis for a competition collision on 1 March.
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