Real Madrid and Luka Modric will separate their paths this summer according to the latest coming out of the Spanish capital – but it will be the club that wants to end things.
After a season in which Modric had seen his role reduced to largely a rotational option or an impact substitute, many had suspected that the Croatian might be the one that brings their relationship to an end, in search of a more important position in a team. However Relevo say that Real Madrid have all but decided not to offer Modric a renewal this summer.
The club believe that it is time for the younger players to continue their development, and the case of Arda Guler is cited, with the Turkish talent growing frustrated at his lack of minutes. Some of those he might have had went to Modric this season. Equally, Modric is also on high wages, and with the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, freeing up some of their salary bill does not hurt, although this is not the decisive factor.
Modric is willing to make an effort to lower his salary and remain at the club, but the decision has more or less been taken. He wants to continue for another season, and it is made clear that it is not a decision that has come from the coaching staff, but rather the higher ups at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 38-year-old arrived 12 years ago from Tottenham Hotspur, and carved out his name in the history books at Real Madrid. Over 531 games, he has scored 39 goals and given 86 assists, winning five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles, four Club World Cups, four European Supercups, five Spanish Supercups and two Copas del Rey. He was also awarded the World Player of the Year in 2018 by FIFA, and the Ballon d’Or. Save for a U-turn, he has four games left, and a chance to go out on top of European football at Real Madrid.
