Real Madrid recorded a five-goal win over Deportiva Minera in the Copa del Rey on Monday evening, with Fede Valverde and Luka Modric battling it out for goal of the match. However, it was the Croatian who took home the praise from his manager.
Ancelotti was asked after the match whether criticism of his management might have soured the experience of coaching at the Santiago Bernabeu. Something the Italian immediately rejected.
“I am satisfied with every aspect, criticism of the coach is very normal. There is no such thing as a football university, everyone can give their opinion and sometimes he is right.”
Against Valencia on Friday evening, Modric started Los Blancos' comeback with a neat finish past Stole Dimitrievski to become the oldest goalscorer in Real Madrid history at the age of 39. He followed it up with a second in consecutive games after a nice goal.
“He is a gift, a gift to football. Especially for those who can enjoy him up close: the fans, the teammates, the coach… all of Real Madrid. For me, you are a great gift, especially because of the way he prepares for these kinds of matches. He prepares them as if it were a final, he is a very important example for young people.”
Ancelotti was the man in charge of the transition away from the legendary midfield of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Modric, with the eldest of the three being the last standing. However, the manager's job has undoubtedly been made much easier by the attitude that all three, but especially Modric, have shown in terms of dedication, but also helping his teammates to develop in their roles.
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