Real Madrid have one last game against Real Sociedad this season to say goodbye to their fans at the Santiago Bernabeu – and not least to Carlo Ancelotti. But already now, the club has been in full swing with the planning for next season. Nevertheless, it looks like Luka Modrić’s future could take a dramatic turn.
Modrić’s situation: From the exit list to possible renewal
The 39-year-old Croatian legend has been placed on the list of players likely to leave the club this summer, with his contract about to expire and the club uncertain about his role next season. As one of several veterans Real Madrid have doubts about – including Lucas Vázquez, who seems to be ending his time at the club – Modrić was grouped alongside him on the exit list.
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Xabi Alonso asks for renewal
However, according to Radio Marca, new manager Xabi Alonso will make Real Madrid change their minds about Modrić. The experienced midfielder has always wanted to stay, and as early as last summer, he was aiming to go to the 2026 World Cup with Croatia as a Real Madrid player.
Sources claim that Alonso has explicitly requested that Modrić renew, valuing his experience, leadership skills, and role in the dressing room. Modrić turns 40 in September and is already Real Madrid’s oldest player ever, as well as the oldest goalscorer – a record he took from Ferenc Puskás this season.
Real Madrid’s midfield options next season
Modrić is one of seven possible options Real Madrid have as a central midfielder (not counting Brahim Díaz). Dani Ceballos and Eduardo Camavinga face uncertain futures, while Jude Bellingham is reportedly set to move back into a deeper role. Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni seem like permanent names, while Arda Güler will continue his development.
So far, Real Madrid have four midfield options on their shortlist for the summer transfer window.
Now it remains to be seen if Alonso will get his way – and if Modrić will have the opportunity to end his career in his own way in the white shirt.
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